Albuquerque Adds 78 Acres to Its Open Space System through Land Trade

On Wednesday December 5th, 2007, State Land Commissioner Pat Lyons and Albuquerque Mayor Martin Chávez agreed to add 78 acres to the City’s Open Space system through a land trust swap.

In order to complete the land exchange, the state Land Office will obtain city-owned lands of equal value in San Juan, Torrance and/or Bernalillo counties. 

The newest addition to the West Mesa Open Space System is located within the Volcano Heights Master Plan area.  It is adjacent to the Petroglyph National Monument and southwest of the Albuquerque Public Schools education complex.  This complex includes Volcano Vista High School and sports facilities, and there are plans to build middle and elementary schools on the site as well.

City Councilor Michael Cadigan has been closely involved in helping to protect land around the Petroglyphs as is very pleased with the exchange. 

The new Open Space property will serve to connect the Boca Negra Arroyo with other recreational trails and parks in the area.  It will also provide a buffer between residential and commercial development and the Petroglyph National Monument.  Additionally, preserving this land as Open Space serves to protect five archaeological sites located on the property including what is know as the “Folsom-period Paleo-Indian site.”

Please see this New Mexico State Land Office announcement for more information.