Commission approves $108,900 DOT grant to upgrade White Sands Regional Airport electrical vault

The Alamogordo City Commission approved acceptance of a $108,900 grant from the New Mexico Department of Transportation to plan, design, renovate and construct electrical systems at White Sands Regional Airport.

Staff explained the funding will pay to renovate the airport's electrical vault — described as a "rat nest of wires" — including panels and switches required to support future runway and systems upgrades. "This is actually do the work," a staff member said, clarifying the award is not merely a study. Commissioners discussed whether the amount was sufficient and staff replied they believe it is enough for the vault work. One commissioner called the grant "kind of a small grant," and staff said the scope is limited to the vault area and does not involve extensive conduit runs.

A motion to approve the grant was moved, seconded and passed 7-0. Staff said the approach is part of a pipeline of infrastructure projects and that additional capital improvements will be scheduled after the vault is upgraded.