BERNALILLO COUNTY, N.M. — The Bernalillo County Commission approved $184,818 to put toward improvements to Dolores Huerta Gateway Park in the South Valley.

The county had already earmarked nearly $720,000 for Phase 3 of improvements to the park, which hosts South Valley Market events in the summer. The money approved Tuesday will fill the gap in Phase 3 funding.

Phase 3 consists of reconfiguring the eastern drainage pond into a playing field with turf where people can sit during performances at the market. Other improvements include drainage updates and landscaping, including more trees for shade and additional lighting.

Construction is set to start in the fall and is expected to be completed by mid-2027.

South Valley Market events take place almost every Friday night in the summer, with a farmers market, arts and crafts, food and live entertainment. This year’s events start June 12.

RIO RANCHO, N.M. – Paul Wymer is projected to win Rio Rancho’s mayoral election.

Early results on Tuesday night showed Wymer had 64% of the vote with over 16,000 votes counted. The general election last month saw a total of 13,757 ballots cast.

Wymer currently serves on the Rio Rancho City Council.

His opponent, Alexandria Piland, is a former teacher.

Mayor Gregg Hull decided not to seek reelection so he could run for governor of New Mexico, paving the way for a change in leadership in Rio Rancho.

“We are going to continue on the same path as Mayor Hull,” Wymer said. “If there is anything we are going to do different, it’s to expand on the accomplishments we have already made.”

Earlier on Tuesday, Wymer said he was already ready to take on the job.

“Having worked side by side with Mayor Hull for the last 6 years, I think it will be a smooth transition,” Wymer said. “I know exactly what to expect out of the gates. Well be working on the budget, that’s first and foremost and typically one of the first things the new mayor has to tackle. We’ve already got meetings scheduled to take a look at that budget.”

Wymer’s term will begin on May 1.

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — New Mexico State Police is investigating a deadly pedestrian crash that left westbound Interstate 40 closed for hours in Albuquerque.

It happened early Tuesday morning at Eubank Boulevard The westbound lanes closed at Juan Tabo Boulevard around 6:30 a.m.

Westbound I-40 is back open. Further details are limited at this time. Albuquerque Police Department confirmed NMSP is investigating.