ABQ to receive $5M grant for Balloon Fiesta Park renovations

Funding to address flooding issues and go toward Americans with Disabilities Act improvements

Rainbow Ryder hot air balloons take flight at Balloon Fiesta Park in Albuquerque on Oct. 3, 2024.
Gregory R.C. Hasman
Gregory R.C. Hasman Journal Staff Writer
Published Modified

Balloon Fiesta guests can expect to see some upgrades after the city of Albuquerque was awarded a $5 million grant from the state of New Mexico.

The money will be used to alleviate flooding issues and for Americans with Disabilities Act improvements at the Balloon Fiesta Park, Department of Municipal Development spokesperson Dan Mayfield said in a news release on Friday.

Work is expected to begin sometime in 2026, he said in a phone interview.

“The fantastic support from the state of New Mexico will improve pedestrian access to the launch field, stabilize erosion and prevent flooding, addressing priority needs at this major recreational facility,” Parks and Recreation Director Dave Simon said.

Over the last two years, the DMD and the Parks and Recreation Department completed many projects at the park. They include: updating the electrical infrastructure, installing security cameras and a public address system, adding 23 acres of new parking, building a new large permanent bathroom facility, and completing an ADA-accessible sidewalk.

“Balloon Fiesta Park is one of our gems in the city and state," Mayor Tim Keller said in a statement. "In the last two years we have improved the park with new electrical infrastructure, new parking, and new bathrooms to make it even better. With this grant, we can continue improving the park.”

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