Sunland Park, New Mexico, is taking significant steps to address sewage spills and flooding issues that have plagued the Anapra area for decades. With a heavy El Niño season on the horizon, the city is racing to complete a stormwater drainage system to mitigate potential disasters. This initiative is part of a broader effort to tackle infrastructure challenges that span the U.S.-Mexico border.

The city’s Carlos Aguirre Flood Control Project with a budget of $3.85 million is currently under construction. City Manager Mario Juarez-Infante reported that the storm drains are approximately 80% complete with an expected completion date by the end of August. This project aims to address long-standing flooding issues and improve the quality of life for residents in the Anapra area.

Addressing Sewage Spills from Anapra, Mexico

The sewage spills originating from Anapra, Chihuahua, have been a significant concern for Sunland Park residents. The spills have disrupted daily life and raised concerns about long-term impacts. During a recent town hall meeting, residents expressed their frustrations, particularly about the unpleasant odors that have affected their neighborhoods.

One resident compared the smell to a dirty porta potty that hasn’t been picked up highlighting the severity of the issue. The city has confirmed that the sewage from the Juarez neighborhood of Anapra has reached residential areas near Anapra Road in Sunland Park. However, City Manager Juarez-Infante assured residents that the immediate sewage issue has been mitigated by the city’s utility department, CRRUA.

The Carlos Aguirre Flood Control Project

The Carlos Aguirre Flood Control Project is a critical component of Sunland Park’s efforts to address infrastructure challenges. The project focuses on installing storm drains to move stormwater out of the area and reduce flooding risks. While this project will not resolve the cross-border sewer overflow issue, it is a significant step toward improving the

Juarez-Infante emphasized that the project is intended to address long-running flooding issues but noted that it will not fix the cross-border sewer overflow issue. The city believes the sewer overflow issue is connected to pressure on wastewater infrastructure in Mexico. Evidence, including photos and drone video, shows sewer systems overflowing through manholes, with wastewater mixing with stormwater and moving toward Sunland Park.

A Five-Year Bi-National Plan

To tackle the cross-border sewer flows, Sunland Park has laid out a five-year bi-national plan. This plan involves coordination between agencies on both sides of the border, including local, county, state, federal, and international partners. The goal is to address the issues at their source in Anapra, Mexico, and mitigate their impact on the U.S. side.

Juarez-Infante highlighted the importance of collaboration, stating that the five-year plan is working with both sides. The city is seeking funding through NADBank and the International Boundary and Water Commission (IBWC) to resolve the infrastructure challenges. This bi-national effort aims to ensure long-term solutions that benefit both communities.

Residents also raised concerns about construction impacts, including accessibility and road closures in the area. Juarez-Infante acknowledged these concerns and assured residents that the city would address them promptly. He emphasized the importance of community involvement and staying informed about the ongoing projects.

As Sunland Park continues to work on these infrastructure projects, the city remains committed to improving the quality of life for its residents. The completion of the stormwater drainage system and the implementation of the five-year bi-national plan are crucial steps toward addressing the long-standing issues in the Anapra area.