City’s Statement about Expo New Mexico RFP

Today the State of New Mexico, who owns and operates Expo New Mexico, announced an RFP for redevelopment the fairgrounds. The City of Albuquerque has no authority over the property, but has always had a very strong interest in how the land is used to support our community.

“Almost every Mayor of Albuquerque has wanted to utilize the fairgrounds in a way that is more beneficial to the city, regardless of if the actual state fair is there or somewhere else; today we have chance finally realize that dream to lift up the International District and the broader core of the city and make huge dent in our housing shortage,” Mayor Keller noted at the event.

Mayor Keller joined state leaders and also shared a wish list for what the city would like to see as part of redevelopment plans:

• Redevelopment plans should be in step with the community and give opportunities for locals to engage in the process.
• Housing is a critical need in the metro, and more housing options should be included in any plans.
• The State Fair staying in Albuquerque, whether it's at its current location on Central or in other parts of town like Mesa del Sol, near Double Eagle II Airport, or by the Westside Sports Complex.
• Plans should include essential businesses like a grocery store and a pharmacy, which are needed in the International District.
• Historic spaces, landscaping and trees on the grounds should be preserved and accessible for the community to use.
• Include ample green spaces for broader community use.

“You don’t always get everything on your wish list, but I’ll always ask for what residents in Albuquerque deserve,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “We are ready to support any state efforts to revitalize the International District and bring more housing and opportunities to our city.”

With Governor Lujan Grisham and the Legislature’s leadership, the City is hopeful that positive change and substantial investment in the area will happen. The City appreciates the State’s effort to revitalize Expo New Mexico and the surrounding neighborhoods.

Mayor Keller has been committed to reversing decades of underinvestment in the International District since he first got into public service as a young State Senator. At the City, Mayor Keller has directed over $83 million to revitalize the International District, transforming abandoned spaces into affordable housing, upgrading infrastructure, and creating opportunities to uplift the community. He has also served on two previous state fair redesign task forces under two previous Governors as a Senator representing the area. He concluded that despite previous attempts, “This time around we have chance to actually get something done.”