ABQ Times

The University of New Mexico-Gallup is set to receive $4 million for the third phase of renovations at Gurley Hall, contingent on voter approval of New Mexico's General Obligation Bond 3 in the upcoming 2024 General Election. This bond will propose over $230 million for public higher education institutions, special public schools, and tribal schools without increasing taxes.

UNM-Gallup Chancellor Sabrina Ezzell emphasized the importance of GO bonds, stating, "GO bonds are a valuable tool for supporting essential public infrastructure projects, including building renovations at UNM-G." These bonds are funded by property taxes and are crucial for capital improvements in New Mexico’s higher education sector.

The proposed funding would transform UNM-Gallup's fine arts department into a modern space conducive to student success. The renovation will cover classrooms and studios dedicated to various art forms such as pottery, painting, jewelry, and drawing. Ezzell noted that disciplines like jewelry require specialized facilities that cannot be replicated virtually.

Artist Eric-Paul Riege, an alumnus of UNM-Gallup, currently leads workshops in the existing art lab within Gurley Hall. If approved, GO Bond 3 would enable significant upgrades to these dated facilities which have remained unchanged since their inception in the mid-1980s.

"This project will directly affect student success," said Ezzell. She highlighted how new spaces could enhance learning environments and support students' educational pursuits.

Gurley Hall has already undergone two phases of renovation thanks to previous GO bonds. In 2020 and 2022, UNM-Gallup received $3 million each for these initial phases focusing on career and technical education spaces as well as improving student amenities. Construction on the first phase began in July 2024 with completion expected by summer 2025.

Early voting for this year's election started on October 8th and will continue until November 2nd. Election Day is scheduled for November 5th.

For more details about GO Bond 3, further information can be accessed through their official channels.