OPINION: Why UNM’s stadium upgrades are a must for the next generation

In recent years the New Mexico football team has been causing a stir in the Mountain West Conference. Because of that success, many fans who have waited for New Mexico to be good now want to support the team in person. That enthusiasm would be supported with a stadium expansion project. Last season, the stadium was so packed that it could take a full quarter or more just to get to your seat for the biggest games. But some people would rather use this money elsewhere than for a University Stadium expansion

The University of New Mexico’s stadium was built in 1960, and it has been through a lot and hasn’t always been supported. UNM is asking for $58 million for Phase 1 of the improvement project, which will update restrooms, create a full-service kitchen in the stadium and expand the north concourse area. UNM has already raised $8 million in previous state allotments for it. They are considering a 5-phase project that would cost upward of $265 million, with the other phases including adding chair backs, video boards and upgrades to the press tower.

Doing this could greatly benefit the city and community while creating a better fan experience. As state Sen. Antonio “Moe” Maestas, D-Albuquerque, said: “What we’ve learned in the last couple of years, in particular, is that investing in Division 1 football has a ripple effect. It benefits the university, it benefits the city of Albuquerque and the state as a whole.” New Mexico has strong sports fans who show up to big events, which positively impacts the university and the rest of the city and state.

On the other hand, some people think that this use of money could go elsewhere and fund academics at the university. But an upgraded stadium will upgrade our community, and we need a stronger community.

An upgraded stadium will give UNM a better reputation; The Pit is a nationally known and top-ranked college basketball arena. And the basketball team often competes at a high level, so why not try it with football? There’s momentum to make such an investment now, given the recent success with the new coaching staff and players.

Ben Devargas is a ninth-grade student at Volcano Vista High School who wrote this as an assignment for his journalism class.