AZTEC, N.M. (May 19, 2026) — A major infrastructure investment in northwest New Mexico is expected to accelerate industrial development and job creation following the completion of a 13-mile natural gas pipeline extension serving the San Juan County Industrial Park near La Plata.
Supported through a $3.9 million investment from New Mexico’s Local Economic Development Act (LEDA) program in partnership with Economic Development New Mexico (EDNM) and San Juan County, the project establishes critical utility infrastructure designed to support future industrial recruitment and business expansion efforts throughout the region.
The completed pipeline brings reliable natural gas service to the San Juan County Industrial Park while also extending service access to homes and businesses along the corridor, broadening energy options for surrounding communities.
The infrastructure investment is already generating economic activity. Industrial tenant Process Equipment and Service Company (PESCO) has connected operations to the new pipeline and is expected to add approximately 80 jobs over the next year as it expands its footprint at the industrial park.
State and local leaders say the project enhances the competitiveness of northwest New Mexico and positions the Four Corners region for future investment opportunities.
“Modern infrastructure is essential to attracting employers and supporting industries that provide stable, well-paying jobs,” said Economic Development New Mexico Cabinet Secretary Rob Black. “Extending natural gas service to the industrial park gives companies the reliable energy they need to expand operations and invest in San Juan County.”
The San Juan County Industrial Park includes approximately 45 acres available for industrial development, creating new opportunities for advanced manufacturing, industrial users and other energy-intensive operations seeking available sites with utility readiness.
Local officials emphasized the long-term significance of the infrastructure project for regional development efforts.
“This project opens the La Plata corridor for development that would not have been possible before,” said San Juan County Commission Chairman Sam Gonzales. “Partnerships like this are critical to creating opportunities for our communities and strengthening our local economy.”
For PESCO, the utility upgrade provides the operational reliability necessary to support expansion plans.
“Access to reliable natural gas service is a game-changer for our operations,” said PESCO President and CEO Kyle Rhodes. “This extension gives us the consistent, cost-effective energy capacity we need to grow at the San Juan County Industrial Park.”
The pipeline investment represents a broader strategy focused on infrastructure readiness as communities compete for industrial projects and private sector investment. By improving utility access and preparing development sites for future users, San Juan County is strengthening its position for long-term economic growth and business attraction in northwest New Mexico.
