Cracked concrete, washed out roads and debris from flood waters greeted New Mexico Lt. Gov. Howie Morales Friday during a visit with City of Carlsbad officials.
Morales met with Carlsbad Mayor Dale Janway, Deputy City Administrator KC Cass and Scott Hicks from Smith Engineering in Roswell regarding the estimated $1 million of damage to three low-water crossings in the city.
Cass said flood water from the Guadalupe Mountains flowed through Dark Canyon Arroyo and Rocky Arroyo June 29.
“All this water is coming (from) 60 to 70 miles away,” he said.
Morales watched video footage of flood waters overtaking low-water crossings on San Jose Boulevard, Hidalgo Road and Callaway Drive.
More:Eddy County Commission approves flood declaration after damaging rains
Cass said the damage to Hidalgo Road was substantial. A concrete barrier greeted Morales, Janway, Cass and Hicks on the road as they walked to the damaged crossing.
“The structure itself gave way to the velocity of the water,” he said.
Cass said it could be a year before repair work can begin on San Jose Boulevard.
“We wanted to make sure that we were getting out around the state and assessing what’s taking place. The damage here has definitely been extensive. I’m grateful for the opportunity to be here with the local leadership to show us the damages,” Morales said.
He said he would present the findings to state officials tasked with providing funds for repairs.
“It gives an opportunity to see the impacts first hand (and) to share that with our agencies and then start formulating plans and how we can work together for the federal side, state side and local collaboration is absolutely critical,” Morales said.
More:Sitting Bull Falls damaged by floods, closed to public
A resolution declaring a local disaster, needed to apply for relief funds, awaits the Carlsbad City Council Tuesday night.
Mike Smith can be reached at 575-628-5546 or by email at MSmith@currentargus.com or @ArgusMichae on Twitter.
