The Carlsbad Department of Development (CDOD) announced the groundbreaking of the River View Apartments in the Cascades development, a project that will deliver 36 modern apartment homes to address housing needs in Carlsbad's high-demand market. This $7 million development will feature one-, two-, and three-bedroom floor plans, positioning it as the newest residential addition along the Pecos River and the first housing component within the Cascades at Carlsbad mixed-use commercial development.
Carlsbad's economic landscape has experienced significant transformation over the past decade, with unprecedented growth in the oil and gas industry creating an influx of workers and increasing pressure on local housing availability. The city's industrial corridor has been a primary driver of this economic expansion, making additional housing capacity essential for sustaining growth. River View Apartments is designed to provide high-end residential options that can attract professionals and families while supporting further investment in the community.
"The River View Apartments is more than a housing project—it's an investment in Carlsbad's future," said CDOD President Susan Crockett. "Projects like this help meet our housing demand, stimulate economic activity, and support the long-term success of our community." This perspective underscores the project's role in addressing both immediate housing shortages and broader economic development goals.
Project principles Gary and Alex Millican emphasized the luxury living aspects of the development, stating they are "happy to announce the start of an apartment project in the Cascades development to start in January, bringing a more luxurious fine living on the Pecos River in Carlsbad." Their involvement highlights private sector participation in addressing public infrastructure needs through quality residential construction.
The Cascades development represents a substantial investment in Carlsbad's urban landscape, with multiple projects currently underway totaling nearly $22 million. CDOD Executive Director Kristen Gamboa noted that "Project River View represents exactly what Cascades was designed to become: a place where long-term vision turns into real investment for Carlsbad." She added that "this groundbreaking marks a major step forward in transforming underutilized land into an active, productive part of our community's future," indicating the strategic urban planning behind the development.
City leadership has prioritized housing solutions as Carlsbad continues to grow. "It's exciting to see another major project break ground at the Cascades," said City of Carlsbad Mayor Rick Lopez. "This area highlights the beauty of Carlsbad and the Pecos River, and this development is a much-needed addition that will bring new energy and activity to the area. Projects like this reflect our continued investment in Carlsbad's growth and future." This statement reinforces the municipal commitment to coordinated development that balances economic expansion with quality of life considerations.
The Carlsbad Department of Development serves as the economic development agency for both the City of Carlsbad and Eddy County, providing business assistance and supporting regional growth initiatives. More information about their work is available at https://DEVELOPCARLSBAD.ORG. The River View Apartments project exemplifies how targeted residential development can respond to market demands while contributing to comprehensive community planning, potentially serving as a model for other regions experiencing similar growth pressures from industrial expansion.
