In a landmark decision that promises to transform the economic landscape, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has approved a record $15.6 million investment aimed at expanding outdoor recreation and trail infrastructure across New Mexico. This pivotal funding is poised to significantly boost economic development in Sandoval County and the City of Rio Rancho, potentially enhancing quality of life, creating jobs, and supporting local businesses.
The state’s Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) budget allocates an unprecedented $13 million in special appropriations for the Outdoor Recreation Division. This substantial investment seeks to broaden outdoor access, improve trail infrastructure, and further support New Mexico’s burgeoning outdoor economy. “Investing in outdoor recreation is key to creating jobs, supporting local businesses, and strengthening communities, especially in rural and underserved areas,” stated New Mexico Economic Development Department Secretary Rob Black. This investment is especially critical for areas like Sandoval County, where enhanced outdoor infrastructure can attract both tourists and new residents, contributing to sustained economic development.
Strengthening Sandoval County’s Economic Development with the Outdoor Equity Fund
A significant component of this investment is the FY26 Outdoor Equity Fund, which will offer a record-breaking $4 million for educational programming. This funding aims to provide thousands of youth, including those in Sandoval County and Rio Rancho, with opportunities to explore New Mexico’s great outdoors, many for the first time. The budget also includes a one-year special appropriation of $3 million, an annual allocation of $382,600 from the Equity Fund, and $565,175 from the Land of Enchantment Legacy Fund. By empowering young people to connect with nature, the program is also paving the way for future careers in outdoor recreation and conservation.
“The Outdoor Equity Fund is shaping the next generation of outdoor leaders and conservationists, connecting youth to the outdoors, and creating pathways to careers in the outdoor realm,” remarked Outdoor Recreation Division Director Karina Armijo. This initiative is essential for Sandoval County, where engaging the youth population in environmental stewardship can create long-term benefits in terms of both ecological preservation and economic vitality.
Impact on Economic Development: Outdoor Recreation Trails+ Grant
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A $10 million special appropriation for the Outdoor Recreation Trails+ Grant, supplemented by $1.7 million from the Land of Enchantment Legacy Fund, represents a total investment of $11.7 million targeted at outdoor recreation infrastructure projects. This funding is expected to generate jobs, boost local economies, and enhance outdoor access across New Mexico. For Sandoval County and the City of Rio Rancho, this could mean an influx of visitors drawn to enhanced outdoor facilities, thereby increasing local spending and business growth.
The initiative, established in 2019 under Governor Lujan Grisham, has already shown promising results. The Outdoor Recreation Division has invested $6.5 million to connect over 83,000 youth to the outdoors and awarded $26.4 million to outdoor infrastructure projects across 30 counties and 11 Tribal communities, supporting an estimated 2,132 jobs. As a part of this larger effort, Sandoval County and Rio Rancho stand to gain significantly from improved infrastructure, which will not only enhance the quality of life for residents but also attract new businesses and tourism, contributing to comprehensive economic development.
In conclusion, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham’s approval of the $15.6 million outdoor recreation and trail infrastructure expansion is a transformative move for New Mexico, particularly for Sandoval County and the City of Rio Rancho. By investing in outdoor recreation, the state not only boosts its economy but also enriches community life, fosters environmental stewardship, and sets the stage for a vibrant future. For more information about these grants and to apply for funding, individuals and organizations are encouraged to visit www.NMOutside.com.
