OPINION: West Side studios would solidify ABQ’s role as a leader in TV and film industries

Albuquerque has long been a star in the film and TV production world. Since the introduction of New Mexico’s Film Production Tax Credit in 2003, our city has hosted hundreds of productions, cementing its reputation as a go-to destination for creatives and industry leaders.

In fiscal year 2024 alone, the industry delivered an astounding $740 million in direct production spending to the state.

Now, Albuquerque is ready to raise the curtain on its next big act: Mesa Film Studios, a cutting-edge facility set to redefine the city’s film and TV landscape.

Situated on 60 acres of city-owned property on Albuquerque’s West Side, Mesa Film Studios will offer world-class amenities, including six sound stages, two flex buildings, office spaces, a mill building, and a green screen backlot.

This state-of-the-art studio isn’t just about infrastructure; it’s about impact. Film productions already spend an average of $250,000 per day on salaries, rentals, props, catering and other essentials. The addition of Mesa Film Studios is projected to inject an impressive $300 million annually into Albuquerque’s economy through direct spending and supply chain activities.

Beyond the dollars, this development will create thousands of jobs, fostering a vibrant ecosystem for film production in the region. The upcoming Media Arts Collective at the Albuquerque Rail Yards will nurture the local talent who will benefit from these high-paying, creative careers.

The vision for Mesa Film Studios is bold, but its success depends on a crucial next step: approval from the city’s Environmental Planning Commission at its Dec. 19 meeting. Groundbreaking is slated for early 2025, but EPC approval is essential to moving this project forward.

The city of Albuquerque, alongside its partners in this venture, has worked diligently to engage the public and collaborate with nearby tribal leaders and the community. Together, we are laying the foundation for a project that benefits everyone.

Mesa Film Studios isn’t just a development — it’s an investment in Albuquerque’s future. It’s a vote of confidence in our city’s ability to compete on the global stage, creating opportunities that will resonate for generations.

The Albuquerque Economic Development Department stands united with our community in supporting the efforts of visionary developers who are committed to growing our city and enriching our region. With Mesa Film Studios, we’re not just expanding our footprint in the film industry, we’re solidifying Albuquerque’s role as a leader in creativity, innovation, and opportunity.

The spotlight is on us. Let’s seize it.

Max Gruner is the economic development director for the city of Albuquerque.