Tri-City Record Switches Print Subscribers to USPS Mail Delivery April 1

The Tri-City Record announced it will shift all print subscribers to USPS mail home delivery beginning Wednesday, April 1, framing the move as an operational change that will free up resources to reinvest directly into local reporting and coverage of San Juan County.

In a "Dear Readers" letter published March 24, the paper said subscribers will receive their newspaper with their regular mail on days of publication. For those who want earlier access, the e-Edition, a digital replica of the print newspaper, will be available at 6 a.m. before the mail arrives. The paper said all print subscribers already have unlimited digital access included with their subscription.

The paper described the rationale in straightforward terms: "This change will provide consistent and reliable service while streamlining operations and allowing us to reinvest resources directly into reporting and local coverage."

Since launching in 2023, the Tri-City Record has built a track record of recognized local journalism. Last year the newsroom took home multiple awards from the New Mexico Press Association, including honors for news, sports and education writing, feature photography and front page design. The paper also received the Sunshine Award, which it shared between reporters Debra Mayeux and Bailey Duran. The award recognizes reporting that holds government accountable and promotes transparency.

The shift to mail delivery reflects a pattern emerging at local papers across New Mexico. Eastern New Mexico News, which serves Clovis, Portales, Tucumcari and surrounding communities, made a similar announcement, with editor and publisher David Stevens writing that beginning March 25, "no more home deliveries will be made" and that subscribers would receive papers with their Wednesday mail. Stevens noted the change carries no additional cost for subscribers and that vendor distribution would continue unchanged.

The Tri-City Record's announcement did not address whether existing subscription rates would cover mail delivery costs or specify total print subscriber numbers. The paper emphasized its commitment to digital innovation alongside the delivery change, noting that content beyond the print edition is available on its website and that it continues to develop its platforms.