Artesia & Albuquerque Awarded Recovery Act Funds for Water-Related Projects

WASHINGTON - U.S. Senators Jeff Bingaman and Tom Udall today announced that the Bureau of Reclamation has awarded a $434,640 contract to rehabilitate two artesian wells in Artesia, and a $362,223 contract to construct a security fence and vehicle access improvements at the Rio Grande Silvery Minnow Sanctuary in Albuquerque's South Valley. The funding for both projects comes from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

The artesian wells produce water for ponds that benefit migratory waterfowl and other wildlife. The wells are located on Bureau of Reclamation property at Karr Farm, northeast of Artesia. The contract has been awarded to KD Huey Company LLC, of Capitan.

Stoven Construction, Inc., of Albuquerque, was awarded a $362,223 contract to construct an eight-foot tall fence to protect the minnow sanctuary facility from vandalism. In addition, a new access trail and roadway improvements will be constructed around the facility.

"The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act is continuing to invest in New Mexico's economy. Because of these new contracts, New Mexicans will be put to work and important water-related project will be done," Bingaman said.

"These awards are just the latest examples of how the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act is benefitting New Mexico through projects that improve communities and create good jobs," Udall said. "I am pleased that both Artesia and Albuquerque will benefit from these worthwhile projects."