Bernalillo County officials are reaching out to residents for their input on a new community park planned for the West Gun Club area. This initiative aims to provide much-needed recreational space for a neighborhood currently lacking public park facilities.

Community Engagement

County Vice Chair Frank Baca will host a community meeting at Polk Middle School to discuss the proposed park and gather feedback from local residents. The meeting is scheduled for Wednesday evening at 5:30 p.m., located at 2201 Raymac Road SW. This meeting is an opportunity for residents to voice their opinions on the park’s location and features, ensuring the project aligns with community needs.

Funding and Planning

The project has secured $1 million in capital outlay funding, thanks to state Sen. Michael Padilla’s efforts during the recent legislative session. Of this, $200,000 will be dedicated to planning and design, with the remainder allocated for the initial phase of construction. The overall budget for the park is estimated at $2.2 million, and the county plans to seek additional funding in the 2027 legislative session to complete the project.

Collaborative Efforts

Parks and Recreation staff have been collaborating with Polk Middle School students, the ABC Community School Partnership, and Albuquerque Public Schools’ STEAM program to develop preliminary concepts for the park. This collaborative approach ensures that the park will serve the educational and recreational needs of the community.

Future Plans

County leaders aim to finalize the planning and design by the end of the year, with initial construction expected to begin in early 2027. This timeline reflects the county’s commitment to enhancing community spaces and providing residents with accessible recreational facilities.

Original reporting: KOAT Albuquerque — read the source article.