OPINION: Multi-purpose arena should be Downtown

There is discussion once again to build a multipurpose arena in Albuquerque. That is the good news; however, the bad news is the proposed location of the New Mexico Fairgrounds is a dreadful location, as outlined below. To begin, let’s consider the need for a modern arena in Albuquerque.

This facility, which is long overdue, should have been built two or three decades ago. Nearly 1 million people reside within 50-60 miles of Downtown. The Albuquerque metro is the only metro area with a population of 1 million or more without a modern multipurpose arena. University Arena, The Pit, is a single-purpose facility, Tingley Arena is an antiquated “barn” constructed nearly 70 years ago, and the Santa Ana Arena is too small to attract big-name entertainers and is located on a two-lane road 20 miles from the center of population.

I have some experience with arenas; during my tenure as the city manager of the city of Moline, Illinois (headquarters of Deere & Co.), I was a board member of the Quad City Civic Center Authority that planned and oversaw the construction of a 12,000-seat arena that became highly successful. A wide variety of events are held in the facility, including minor league ice hockey and basketball as well as exhibitions of John Deere construction and agricultural equipment, attracting folks from around the world. Additionally, as a college basketball fan, I attended NCAA basketball tournament games held in 20 different arenas over the span of 23 years; all were located in downtowns.

The proposed Albuquerque facility, which would be transformational for Downtown, belongs in the center of town and not at the Fairgrounds for several reasons:

Accessibility:

• Downtown is a transportation hub, making it easier for folks to access the facility via multiple highways and bus routes. The Fairgrounds would require travel over fewer and narrower roads as well as generate more neighborhood noise and traffic.

Economic revitalization:

• The facility would spark redevelopment in an otherwise stagnant Downtown. The Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce states in a recent publication that successful downtowns include “a play environment” that includes shopping, entertainment and open spaces, pointing out that more activity Downtown would help to revitalize Downtown. When downtown arenas empty out, the local hotels are full, and restaurants and entertainment venues are bustling. The atmosphere is vibrant and electric. None of this activity will happen at the Fairgrounds. Folks will have to climb into their cars to travel to hotels, restaurants or additional entertainment. Finally, city governments are more likely to fund arenas when they are tied to broader urban development goals.

Higher visibility and prestige:

• A Downtown arena would give the Downtown a sense of place, importance and become a civic landmark, enhancing the visual and cultural identity of the city.

Parking:

• There would be no need to construct more parking since most events are scheduled during the evenings and weekends when the existing parking garages are mostly empty.

Year-round activity:

• A multipurpose arena would host an extensive list of activities and events including but not limited to concerts, conventions and sports. A Downtown location ensures constant foot traffic and aligns well with the amenities and energy.