Santa Fe - The New Mexico Cultural Properties Review Committee recently awarded three New Mexico MainStreet projects with the Heritage Preservation Annual Award at its 42nd Annual Heritage Preservation Awards Ceremony. The Heritage Preservation Annual Awards recognize outstanding achievements and exceptional leadership in Heritage Preservation.

"The New Mexico Economic Development Department and its MainStreet program are very proud of these individuals and programs in Artesia, Las Vegas and Clovis for serving New Mexico with award-winning dedication," said Economic Development Secretary Jon Barela. "This is a great example of the ongoing efforts to preserve and develop historic and unique economic areas in the state's small communities. Their success extends well beyond the impressive awards they've received."

2014 MainStreet Members receiving awards:

Artesia - The Artesia Library Foundation and Artesia Library Building Committee received the "Heritage Organization Award" for successfully collaborating to rescue a 15' x 46' mural by Southeastern New Mexico Artist Peter Hurd, which was threatened with demolition. This inspiring partnership raised $7 million dollars for the design and construction of the new Artesia Public Library where the 61-year-old mural was installed as a centerpiece.

Las Vegas - Dr. William Taylor and Rose Contreras-Taylor won the "Heritage Individual Award" for the successful rehabilitation of the Wells Fargo Express Building, a contributing building to the Las Vegas New Mexico Railroad Avenue Historic District. Dr. Taylor is a former President of MainStreet de Las Vegas and serves as the current vice president; Rose Contreras-Taylor is a member of the design committee.

Clovis - Stephen Crozier, Clovis MainStreet and the City of Clovis received the "Architectural Heritage Award" for the excellent Hotel Clovis Rehabilitation Project which demonstrates what a dedicated group of people can achieve working together to ensure that an important local landmark is preserved.

New Mexico MainStreet is a grassroots economic development program of the New Mexico Economic Development Department. For more information about New Mexico MainStreet visit http://gonm.biz/Mainstreet.aspx or http://nmmainstreet.org/.