RELEASE: Governor announces RFP for fairgrounds redevelopment plan
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Office of the Governor
Contact: Michael Coleman, Michael.coleman@exec.nm.gov
December 3, 2024
Governor announces RFP for fairgrounds redevelopment plan
ALBUQUERQUE – Today, Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham announced plans to seek proposals for master plan to redevelop the New Mexico State Fairgrounds and transform 236 acres of state-owned land in central Albuquerque to potentially include housing, commerce, entertainment venues and more.
Standing with New Mexico House Speaker Javier Martinez, Senate President Pro Tem Mimi Stewart, Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller, New Mexico State Fair Commission Chairman Eric Serna and other state and local leaders, the governor said the request for proposals (RFP) will usher in an exciting new era for the existing fairgrounds.
“This RFP will lead to a master plan that will guide important decisions about the future of the New Mexico State Fairgrounds, a storied part of Albuquerque and important component of the city’s long-term growth,” said Lujan Grisham . “This collaboration between state, city and county governments could drive billions in new investment for the International District and nearby communities.”
Today’s announcement followed a special meeting of State Fair Commission, which voted unanimously to issue the RFP on Wednesday morning. Starting Wednesday, the RFP can be accessed on EXPO New Mexico’s website at Expo New Mexico. Proposals will be evaluated in late January with a six-month timeline for production of a plan by the selected contractor. The public will have opportunities to provide input for the plan once a contractor is selected.
The RFP seeks the services of a consulting firm with expertise in community planning and engagement, urban design, and economic development and analysis to develop a master plan for redevelopment and to identify needs for the next 10 to 20 years.
During the 2024 legislative session, New Mexico lawmakers appropriated $500,000 in capital outlay funding to EXPO New Mexico for the purpose of developing the master plan. Ideas to be considered include:
Building a new, modern arena that has the capacity to support large scale concerts and events.
Identifying potential new sites for the annual New Mexico State Fair event.
Identifying potential mixed income housing opportunities.
Over the next decade, an estimated 55,000 new residential dwellings are needed in Albuquerque to keep pace with growth.
“This state land in the heart of New Mexico’s largest city presents a unique opportunity to create badly needed new housing for the workforce, while spurring massive private investment,” Lujan Grisham said. “I thank our partners at EXPO New Mexico, the state legislature, the City of Albuquerque and Bernalillo County for their collaboration and support as we embark on this exciting new chapter in Albuquerque development.”
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