FAQs
Find answers about the Fairgrounds District, the Master Plan, funding, what the changes mean for the Fair and the community, and more.
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What is the “State Fairgrounds District”?
The State Fairgrounds District is a political subdivision of the state, separate from any municipality. The district includes land owned by the state, commonly known as the State Fairgrounds, within the city limits of Albuquerque as of July 1, 2025. It also encompasses land contiguous to the Fairgrounds that may later be acquired by the district or another public entity and added to the district boundaries by the board.
What is the “Board”?
The board refers to the State Fairgrounds District Board, created in Senate Bill 481, and consists of the following members. Board Meetings are open to the public and included in the calendar.
- Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, Chair
- State Senator Mimi Stewart
- State Representative Janelle Anyanonu
- Mayor Tim Keller
- City Councilor Nichole Rogers
- County Commissioner Adriann Barboa
- Dr. Peter Belletto
Who is creating the master plan?
How will the governor’s initiative impact the neighborhoods around the Fairgrounds?
The governor’s initiative will inject between $2 and $4 billion dollars in economic activity around the Fairgrounds, according to early economic estimates.
How can I share my opinions and ideas on the governor’s initiative?
Attend meetings of the State Fair Commission and the New Mexico State Fairgrounds District Board, as well as community meetings held as part of the master planning process. You can also sign up for email updates and complete the master planning surveys.
Is the State Fair moving?
That decision has not been made. The master planning process will consider multiple scenarios—some that include the State Fair in its current location with a modified footprint and others that explore different uses for the site. Community input will help shape the outcome.
Who has the authority to decide if the State Fair will be moved?
The New Mexico State Fair Commission holds the legal authority to make that decision.
What is the difference between the New Mexico State Fair Commission and the New Mexico State Fairgrounds District Board?
The State Fair Commission is appointed by the governor and confirmed by the state Senate. It has full authority over the Fair, the grounds and the activities held there. The New Mexico State Fairgrounds District Board is a tax increment development district (TIDD) entity created during the 2025 legislative session through Senate Bill 48. It captures all gross receipts and gaming taxes for use primarily within the geographic boundaries of the State Fair. A copy of the enabling legislation is available on this website. By statute, the board is made up of the governor, the mayor of Albuquerque, the state senator and state representative for the area, the city councilor for the area, the county commissioner for the area, and one community member appointed by the governor.
If the Fair moves, will that be the end of the Fair?
No. The Governor has indicated that the Fair should stay in central New Mexico and if moved, rebuilt in a way that allows facilities to be used year-round including hosting the Fair.
How is the public being included in this process?
We’re ensuring robust public participation through multiple channels. A stakeholder committee with diverse community representation has been established to guide the master planning process. Additionally, we’ll host large-scale community meetings where all residents can share their input and suggestions. This dual approach allows for both detailed stakeholder guidance and broad public engagement throughout the process.
When is the master planning process expected to be finished?
The master planning process began on July 1, 2025, with completion anticipated between January and March 2026. This 6-to-8-month timeline allows for thorough community input, stakeholder engagement and comprehensive analysis to ensure the final master plan reflects the needs and vision of the community.