Las Vegas, NM – The New Mexico Department of Finance and Administration (DFA) has announced $50 million in grants to support the development and expansion of recreational facilities, trails, and parks statewide. As part of this competitive grant cycle, the City of Las Vegas was selected as one of 22 communities to receive funding for a highly anticipated and much-needed project, the Historic Las Vegas Plaza Renovation Project, with a total award of $2,480,000.

This investment will fund comprehensive improvements to Plaza Park, a central and historic gathering space. Planned upgrades include renovations to the gazebo, expansion of its footprint to better accommodate live entertainment, installation of a new sprinkler system, sod, sidewalks, and the addition of trees to enhance shade and aesthetic appeal. All existing concrete and brick surfaces will be removed and replaced with newly finished materials to improve safety and appearance.

"Over the past couple years, we have consistently heard from our community about the need to improve and invest in Plaza Park," stated Mayor David Romero. "This grant award helps us directly respond to those concerns by supporting needed upgrades to the park and gazebo. These improvements will better accommodate community events, strengthen economic activity, and ensure we continue to preserve and celebrate our cultural traditions for generations to come."

The project will also include significant electrical upgrades to support vendors and events, as well as custom lighting and a sound system to enhance community gatherings, performances, and celebrations. Because Plaza Park is a historic location, the project will require compliance with the New Mexico Historic Preservation Division and approval through the City of Las Vegas Design Review Board to ensure all renovations respect and preserve the park’s historic character.

“I am excited to have received the $2.4 million investment for the Plaza and am grateful to all the partners involved who helped secure this funding,” said Councilman Marvin Martinez. “This project will allow us to revitalize such an important space, bring it up to current standards, rebuild it, and expand it to ensure full ADA compliance. These improvements will benefit our children, seniors, and the entire community, including safer, leveled dance areas and ramps for instruments and accessibility. This long-overdue project represents an important section of Ward 4 and will have a major impact on film, economic development, and tourism. This investment ensures the Plaza will continue to serve our community for generations to come.”

Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham highlighted the statewide impact of the funding, noting that these investments provide New Mexicans with more places to gather, play, and stay active. DFA Secretary Wayne Propst added that the projects create welcoming public spaces, boost health, and strengthen local connections.

The City of Las Vegas was officially notified of the award this past Wednesday. The Public Works Department, in partnership with Stantec Engineering, successfully identified and secured the grant with Robert Archuleta from Arch Consulting, LLC providing additional grant support. The City will continue to manage the project to ensure all improvements meet community needs and historic preservation requirements. Once completed, the renovated Plaza will become a major tourism and economic driver, supporting downtown activity, local vendors, and community events, while preserving one of our most treasured historic landmarks.