Upper Canyon Closure Begins August 7: Emergency Work to Get Underway for Water and Sewer Lines
RUIDOSO, NM — Beginning at 8:00 AM on Thursday, August 7, 2025, the Village of Ruidoso will temporarily close the Upper Canyon area for emergency work to repair water and sewer lines severely damaged by recent flooding. The full closure is expected to last up to 14 days, and possibly longer, depending on conditions encountered during excavation. The closure will be from the Traffic Circle to the Reservation Line.
We understand this is a significant disruption to daily life, and we are working with urgency to restore essential services while keeping the community safe. The repair work will require deep excavation across roadways, making the area temporarily unsafe and inaccessible.
Once a resident leaves, they will not be permitted to return until the closure is lifted.
Law enforcement escorts will not be available.
Water and sewer service will be completely unavailable throughout the repair period.
Emergency service access will be limited due to ongoing construction.
Strike Teams will begin going door-to-door on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, to notify residents. Displaced residents will be provided temporary lodging in designated local hotels, with costs covered by the New Mexico Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (NMDHSEM). Additional support, including housing assistance from FEMA, is available through the Disaster Resource Center at ENMU-Ruidoso.
If you or someone you know requires help relocating—especially for medical reasons or equipment needs—please contact the Village for assistance.
We appreciate your patience and cooperation during this emergency repair period. Below are answers to frequently asked questions.
For all questions and inquiries, please call the Village of Ruidoso Emergency Operations Center (EOC): (575) 258-6901, Mon-Fri: 8 am-5 pm.
⸻
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
GENERAL CLOSURE INFORMATION
How long will the Upper Canyon area be closed?
The closure is expected to last up to 14 days, though it could be extended depending on weather or unforeseen repair needs.
Why is the entire area being closed?
Flooding caused extensive damage to water and sewer infrastructure. Repairs will involve digging across roads, which means the area must be fully closed to ensure safety and allow uninterrupted work.
When does the closure begin?
The closure takes effect Thursday, August 7, 2025, at 8:00 AM.
⸻
ACCESS AND RE-ENTRY
Can I return home if I forget something or want to check on my property?
Unfortunately, no. Once you exit the Upper Canyon during the closure, you will not be allowed back in until the area is officially reopened. There will be no escorted visits.
⸻
UTILITIES AND SERVICES
Will I have water or sewer service during the closure?
No. These services will be fully shut off during the repair period.
What about electricity, gas, or internet?
Please contact your individual service providers directly for information about service availability during the closure.
When will water and sewer service be restored?
Once repairs are complete. This may take up to two weeks or longer, depending on the extent of the damage and working conditions.
⸻
TEMPORARY HOUSING
Where will I stay during the closure?
Displaced residents will be provided temporary lodging in designated local hotels, with costs covered by the New Mexico Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (NMDHSEM).
Who covers the cost of housing?
The New Mexico Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (NMDHSEM) will cover the cost of hotel accommodations.
Can I stay with family or friends instead?
Yes. You may choose your own alternative accommodations if you prefer. You may still be eligible for FEMA assistance, even if you don’t use the provided hotel housing.
How can I access FEMA assistance?
Visit the Disaster Resource Center (DRC) at ENMU-Ruidoso for support and assistance with FEMA funding, including potential housing reimbursement or transitional help. The DRC is open 7 days a week- 9 am - 7 pm.
⸻
EVACUATION ASSISTANCE
What if I have a medical condition that makes it hard to relocate?
Resources are available to help residents with medical needs, including the transportation of medical equipment. Please contact the Village so that we can coordinate necessary support.
⸻
We know this is not easy, and we want you to know you’re not alone in it. The Village, along with local and state partners, is committed to restoring access and services as quickly and safely as possible.
Please continue to check the Flood Recovery Resources page for updates, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you need assistance or have additional questions.
Thank you for your resilience and cooperation.
Document(s): Closure Notice Upper Canyon | Upper Canyon Q&A
