New Mexico selects firm for fairgrounds redevelopment plan

New Mexico has selected Albuquerque-based Hartman + Majewski Design Group to develop a detailed master plan for redeveloping the State Fairgrounds in Albuquerque’s International District. The plan will guide proposed housing, parks, pedestrian improvements, mixed-use commercial space and a sports stadium; the first phase may also include an event center, with the state expected to choose an anchor developer in December. The state projects the multiyear redevelopment will support about 940 jobs annually for 30 years, and has said the first phase could receive roughly $200 million in state investment. Supporters say the project could attract investment, jobs and amenities, while some residents and community groups worry about stadium spending, traffic, rising housing costs, displacement and whether neighborhood needs such as affordable housing and public safety should take priority.