The Camino Real Regional Utility Authority (CRRUA) continues to make progress on the Riverside Vacuum Station Replacement Project, including ongoing efforts to reduce operational noise impacts for nearby residents while advancing toward a permanent infrastructure solution.

Approximately five months ago, CRRUA completed temporary repairs that helped reduce noise levels to a more manageable level while the utility continued development of a long-term solution. CRRUA is currently creating a temporary bypass system intended to allow shutdown of the exterior blower equipment, which remains the primary source of the noise.

During a recent inspection, CRRUA staff identified a mechanical separation involving a muffler component associated with the blower system. CRRUA operations staff are actively working to repair the issue. While some operational noise from the exterior blower equipment may continue until bypass improvements are completed, current repair efforts are expected to significantly reduce the elevated noise levels recently experienced by residents.

In support of the long-term replacement project, CRRUA has secured approximately $1.9 million in New Mexico Colonias Infrastructure funding to remove the existing vacuum station and construct a new ground lift station on Riverside Drive.

CRRUA is currently in Phase 1 of the project. This phase includes replacing force main lines that will be used for both the temporary bypass system and permanent lift station. CRRUA anticipates Phase 1 activities will take approximately two to four weeks to complete.

“We appreciate the community’s patience as we complete these critical improvements that will enhance system reliability and quality of life for the surrounding neighborhood,” said CRRUA Executive Director Juan Crosby.

To help keep residents informed, CRRUA regularly provides project updates during CRRUA board meetings, held on the second Monday of each month at 5 p.m. at the Sunland Park City Council Chambers, 1000 McNutt Rd. Meeting notices and agendas are available on the CRRUA website at crrua.org.

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