Preliminary ideas released for potential New Mexico State Fairgrounds redevelopment

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) – Potential redevelopment of the New Mexico State Fairgrounds in Albuquerque is moving fast, and KRQE News 13 is getting our first look at some of the big ideas being offered up to redesign one of the main corners of the property. The 49-acre corner is located on San Pedro and Central. Planners are emphasizing they’re only in the idea phase, but so far, that includes a lot of new potential housing and a possible, massive new park.  

“Today, we’re looking at things like traffic calming on San Pedro, pedestrian safety on Central, which is one of the most dangerous roadways in the United States of America. Ten acres of green space that can open up and be available to the public,” said Martin Chavez, New Mexico State Fairgrounds Initiative. 

Planners emphasize their concepts are not final, but they include ideas of adding a bunch a different types of housing, better bus stops, space for food trucks, and the flea market in what would be a big, open park and promenade. An initial estimate outlines a $64 million cost.

Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham said the neighborhood is overdue for an update. “It just never got what it deserves to be a meaningful community that reflects the people who live there who have always deserved this level of prioritization and support,” said Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham (D-New Mexico). 

Redevelopment could also include buying up neighboring land, like the closed CVS near Louisiana Blvd. and Central Ave. “So, it’s a balance of as things happen inside the fairgrounds, we also want to see good things happening outside the fairgrounds, and it’s a good first step,” said Roger Valdez, Director, the Center for Housing Economics. 

Reacting to the ideas, Albuquerque City Councilor Nicole Rogers said it’s a great start, going in the right direction for her district. “This is stuff that we can do right away, regardless of what happens with the fair, if it stays or goes. Community wants green space, the community wants better pedestrian safety around the fair, and we need to lower the heat index,” said Nichole Rogers, Albuquerque City Councilor for District 6. 

The Tax District Board overseeing the plan effort passed a resolution on Thursday to move the ideas forward to the next design stage. It will have to go to the State Board of Finance for approval next. The Fairgrounds District will host a second public meeting to get community input on the potential drafts on November 18.