Keller Administration Initiates Feasibility Study for Multi-Purpose Soccer Stadium
Oct. 16, 2020
Following an open and competitive Request for Proposals (RFP) process, the City of Albuquerque has recommended a formal analysis and feasibility study, funded by capital funds from the State of New Mexico, for a new multi-purpose soccer stadium.
“While we remain focused on dealing with the pandemic and increasing public safety, we also know that it is important to think about the future of our city. It is important that even during tough times, we think about what our city can look like in the years to come,” said Mayor Tim Keller.
“New Mexico United has been great for Albuquerque—generating real excitement and a sense of community,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “Anyone who has been a part of one of the sellout games at the Lab knows Albuquerque is behind this team and we’re glad the State is investing in building that momentum into something special.”
“New Mexico’s economy must rapidly speed up after COVID-19,” said Representative Antonio (Moe) Maestas. “A multi-purpose facility is a perfect catalyst to spur economic growth.
“This complex will be and economic catalyst and reimagines what a multi-use facility can be for the community, said Senator Jacob Candelaria. “I fully support this first step in the process.”
The RFP calls for a three-phase feasibility review to eliminate unworkable sites, conduct a next-level analysis of remaining sites, and conduct further due diligence on a final preferred site.
"We are beyond excited the City is taking this next step in building a world class, multi-purpose soccer stadium," said New Mexico United President/CEO Peter Trevisani. "We'd like to thank Mayor Keller, Lawrence Rael and everyone involved in this process and we look forward to the results."
“New Mexico United represents the very best of New Mexico: family, diversity, and inclusiveness,” said Representative Javier Martínez. “I am a proud champion of the multi-use facility and appreciate the City of Albuquerque giving this project the due diligence that it deserves.”
The City secured state capital funds to conduct the initial feasibility analysis, economic impact and further due diligence analysis to determine the best overall locations. The multipurpose stadium will be used for many sporting events and by the New Mexico United professional soccer team currently playing in the United Soccer League, Championship Division, which is the second division of professional soccer sanctioned by the U.S. Soccer Federation.
The vision for the project is a 10,500 to 15,000 seat multi-purpose stadium with a natural grass field designed for professional soccer. The project may also include an art/cultural center component which could potentially house a variety of exhibits, cultural and community events, and/or commercial/retail space and housing.
The study should be completed 100 days after the project is awarded. Creative Arts Agency Icon (CAAICON) has been recommended by the city to conduct the feasibility study, which City Council will review next week. A copy of the RFP can be seen here.