ABQ Times

Mesa Verde Park in Albuquerque is set for a major renovation with funding from the federal government. The U.S. Department of the Interior announced that it is awarding the city $1.3 million for the project, which will be matched by the city, bringing the total investment to $2.6 million.

"Fixing up this Mesa Verde Park is a project I’ve wanted to do ever since I was a State Senator in the International District, and with this funding, we’re finally able to do the renovations families in the area deserve," said Mayor Tim Keller. "After over 40 years since it was built, Mesa Verde Park is getting the upgrades it needs."

The renovation plan includes a futsal court and pickleball courts; new playground and nature play area; shade structures; a dog park; expansion of the existing pollinator garden; a loop path connecting art sculptures in the park; more trees; and replacement of the park’s 40-year-old irrigation system.

"Mesa Verde Park has been in desperate need of an overhaul," said Parks & Recreation Director Dave Simon. "We’re grateful for this extra support from the federal government and we’re ready to get to work to bring it into the 21st century."

Constructed in 1980, Mesa Verde Park has not seen significant improvements since its inception. Located in Albuquerque's International District within La Mesa neighborhood, which has a diverse population, it sits next to a community center where improved outdoor space could help expand programming.

"I want to extend my deepest gratitude to the National Park Service and the team in Parks and Recreation that worked to make this grant award happen," said City Councilor Nichole Rogers. "Mesa Verde Park is a highly utilized space that deserves to be restored for the community that lives in the surrounding area. I can’t wait to see this project done so we can host more community events here."

The city anticipates that once initiated, the project will take about 20 months to complete. However, further planning and bidding processes are required before construction can begin.

The Parks & Recreation Division submitted this grant application back in April 2024. This marks their second grant award from ORLP program.

Currently, 90% of Albuquerque residents live within a 10-minute walk of a park, trail, or green space. This accessibility contributes to Albuquerque's park system ranking 15th nationally according to the 2024 ParkScore Index.

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