The State Board of Finance has approved a $22.35 million bond package for the State Fair District Board to acquire nearly nine acres on the southwest corner of Albuquerque’s State Fairgrounds. This acquisition is a step toward broader development plans for the area, which include creating a 10-acre public park with plazas, trails, play areas, restrooms, and pedestrian improvements along the boundary of the Fairgrounds.
Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham stated, “The International District deserves world-class public spaces, and this development will deliver accessible parks and amenities that families can enjoy year-round.”
The total cost for acquiring and developing these parcels is estimated at $90.15 million. The planned improvements are expected to move forward regardless of which redevelopment proposal for the Fairgrounds is ultimately chosen.
The State Fairgrounds District Board will review three master plan concepts on Thursday, December 11. The predevelopment bond will be considered by the State Board of Finance on Tuesday, December 16.
Funding comes from the bonding authority of the State Fairgrounds District. Community members are encouraged to provide feedback through an online portal at www.fairgroundsdistrict.nm.gov.
The New Mexico Fairgrounds District Board was established in early 2025 with a mandate to redesign the Fairgrounds and enhance benefits for surrounding neighborhoods.