Oct 10, 2024 · Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department

[PRESS RELEASE] Coyote Creek State Park closing for construction of Mora-San Miguel Electric Cooperative power line

Michelle Lujan Grisham, Governor

Melanie A. Kenderdine , Cabinet Secretary Designate

Ben Shelton, Acting Deputy Cabinet Secretary

Toby Velasquez, State Parks Division Director

Contact:

Wendy Mason

Marketing & Public Relations Manager

NM State Parks Division

wendy.mason@emnrd.nm.gov

505-819-1785

Sidney Hill

Public Information Officer, EMNRD

sidney.hill@emnrd.nm.gov

505-629-2900

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

October 10, 2024

Coyote Creek State Park to temporarily close for construction of the Mora-San Miguel Electric Cooperative power line

SANTA FE, NM – New Mexico State Parks would like to inform the public that Coyote Creek State Park will be closed from October 14th through October 28th due to construction related to the main Mora San Miguel Electric Cooperative power line. This is a full park closure and access for day-use and camping will not be available.

Contractors will bury the existing overhead electrical line that currently spans the entire length of the park underground, from the North to South boundaries. Closing the park is necessary as open trenches will be present along the main park roadway posing a danger to the public. Once complete, the power line will be protected from the elements and the park will benefit with a major upgrade to its facilities.

“Not only will our existing facilities and amenities be reconnected to the buried line, but it will also include providing power to a newly developed campground loop at the park,” said State Parks Director Toby Velasquez. “The viewshed through the main valley of the park along Coyote Creek will also will be improved providing a clear, open space for everyone to enjoy during their stay.”

Funding for the project is partially provided by the Land and Water Conservation Fund. Franken Construction is leading the power line renovation for the Mora San Miguel Electric Cooperative.

With 35 State Parks in 25 of 33 counties, there are many other alternatives to plan your getaway! The parks with camping and day-use activities nearest Coyote Creek are Eagle Nest Lake , Cimarron Canyon , Morphy Lake , and Pecos Canyon State Parks. For more information, log onto emnrd.nm.gov/spd , click on State Parks, and choose Find a Park .

New Mexico State Parks is a division of the Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department . Our mission is to protect and enhance natural and cultural resources, provide first-class recreational and education facilities and opportunities, and promote public safety to benefit and enrich the lives of visitors.

Sincerely,

Wendy Mason

Marketing & Public Relations Manager

Records Custodian

New Mexixo State Parks Division

Energy, Minerals & Natural Resources Department

1220 S. St Francis Dr. | Santa Fe, NM 87505

Email: wendy.mason@emnrd.nm.gov | Web: www.emnrd.nm.gov

PH 505-819-1785 (c) | Toll Free 888-667-2757

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