Big changes might be coming to the New Mexico State Fairgrounds. Since late 2024, when Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham first talked about possibly moving the State Fair and revamping the fairgrounds, many people have been curious about what’s next.
Bernalillo County leaders want to make sure the public stays informed and involved in the planning. District 3 Commissioner Adriann Barboa shared that local neighborhoods have smart ideas for improving the area. She hopes this project will help turn those ideas into reality with strong community input.
Here’s an easy guide to understand what’s happening.
Who Will Decide the Future of the Fairgrounds?
The fairgrounds are owned by the State of New Mexico, so the final decision will be made by state officials. Right now, the state’s General Services Department is looking for professional consultants to help create a Master Plan. They announced a $500,000 project in March 2025 asking experts to submit ideas. The selected consultant will help decide what the fairgrounds could become, including whether the State Fair will stay or move.
What Does the State Want for the Fairgrounds?
According to the official request for proposals, the state believes there is a big chance to make better use of the fairgrounds all year round, not just during the fair.
State Senator Mimi Stewart, who represents the area, is pushing for a major update. She envisions a lively, green, mixed-use neighborhood where people can live, work, and enjoy parks. She also sponsored Senate Bill 481, which has passed the Legislature and is waiting for the governor’s signature. This bill would help create a special district to fund and manage the redevelopment.
What Does Senate Bill 481 Do?
Senate Bill 481 sets up a “State Fairgrounds District” covering the 236 acres of the current fairgrounds and any future added land. The goal is to support new projects with money from property taxes and bonds—up to $500 million in funding!
The district would be managed by a board made up of seven local leaders or their chosen representatives, including the governor, a senator, a representative, a city councilor, a county commissioner, the mayor, and a community member chosen by the governor.
What Role Does Bernalillo County Play?
Even though the State of New Mexico owns the land, the fairgrounds are located in an unincorporated area of Bernalillo County, not within Albuquerque city limits. This means that if private companies want to build there, they might need permits from either the county or the city.
What’s Happening with the Master Plan?
Consultants must submit their ideas by April 18, 2025. After that, a team from the General Services Department will pick the best plan. The winning consultant should be announced by May 9, 2025.
If the State Fair Moves, Where Will It Go?
Right now, there’s no new location announced for the State Fair. However, the state has approved $14 million for fairgrounds improvements and possible site purchases. It’s still unclear if and where the Fair would be moved.
Why Create a Special District for Redevelopment?
Creating a special district allows taxes collected within the fairgrounds area to stay there and fund improvements like new roads, parks, water systems, and buildings. This could speed up development without relying on general state funds. The board overseeing the district will make decisions on how the money is spent.
Will the Public Get to Share Their Opinions?
Yes! Once a consultant is selected, there will be public meetings this summer. Community members will be able to share their ideas and feedback. Officials want the new plan to be based on facts, strong economic research, and what people in the area want and need.
What’s the Timeline for These Changes?
After a developer is picked in May, public meetings will happen throughout the summer. A draft Master Plan should be ready by fall 2025, and the final version should be done by early 2026. Once the plan is ready, the District Board will set a budget and timeline for construction.
The future of the New Mexico State Fairgrounds is filled with exciting possibilities. With strong community involvement, expert planning, and the creation of a special district, the area could be transformed into a vibrant neighborhood that is active all year round. Public meetings will give everyone a chance to help shape this major project. Stay tuned for updates and opportunities to share your ideas!
