Major Renovations Underway at Wilson Park in International District
December 6, 2020 -- The City of Albuquerque Parks and Recreation Department is investing more than $1.5 million into a major renovation of Wilson Park and Pool in southeast Albuquerque. The project will transform the area with upgrades and new amenities. Funding for the project comes from the federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program administered by the City’s Family and Community Services Department. CDBG provides funds for state and local governments to address economic development and affordable housing needs in underserved communities.
“From my time in the State Senate to today, I’ve fought for investment in the International District on basic infrastructure like streetlights and parks—and I know this project will help make sure Wilson Park is the kind of place families can play and relax,” stated Mayor Keller. “Investing in Wilson Park will bring new life to this community space and improve the quality and accessibility of our park system.”
Wilson Park is a 3.6-acre park in the South San Pedro neighborhood with grass, trees, and a public art sculpture. The park is adjacent to the City’s Wilson Pool and Wilson Middle School.
Two of the most noticeable upgrades will be a new play area in the park and the addition of a splash pad and shade structures at Wilson Pool. A new pool pump building also will be constructed to house mechanical, electrical, and plumbing improvements.
Other changes to the park include: installation of sidewalks, picnic tables and benches; improvements to the grass field used for sports and recreation activities; and new lighting and fencing to improve safety and security. A major element that will be less visible to park visitors is renovation of the park’s irrigation infrastructure that will improve care for the grass, trees, and other landscaping at the park. The Wilson Middle School tennis courts, which are managed by the Parks and Recreation Department, will be resurfaced, which will support the school’s tennis program as well as general community play. A community information kiosk and neighborhood sign will be added to help bring neighbors together. The improvements and new amenities will help activate the park and create a hub of positive community activity.
In total, the project is an investment of $1,538,308.90 in federal CDBG funding. City Council supported design of the project with $68,244. EPPX, LLC will be the General Contractors with MRWM Landscape Architects serving as the design consultants.