March 20, 2006 -- It's one of the third largest annexations in Las Cruces history and as of Monday, it's a reality.

City council members approved the East Mesa annexation in the Sierra Norte subdivision Monday afternoon after hearing from developers, city officials and concerned citizens.

The developer is adding commercial space, recreation space with a golf course and affordable housing. Homes are starting at $72,000.

Community Development Director Christine Ochs says the economic benefit will be big.

"From the construction there's a lot of gross receipts taxes that's generated during construction, but over time, all of those homes will have families shopping in Las Cruces, eating in Las Cruces, so there's a lot of economic benefit from that point of view," said Ochs.

But residents say they still have a lot of questions such as traffic and whether there will be enough water to supply the new development.

In the meantime, officials are considering linking a new road to Interstate 25.