Cinelease, Inc. and Cinelease Studios have announced their plans for a major expansion in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The entertainment service company has selected Albuquerque as the location for a new investment, which will involve the addition of five soundstages and two ancillary buildings, effectively doubling the current space of their facility. The expansion is expected to bring in hundreds of productions and create job opportunities in construction and film, while also providing a boost to the state's economy.
New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham expressed her excitement about the partnership, stating, "Cinelease is yet another major company to recognize that New Mexico’s strong workforce and competitive business climate makes our state the place to be." She further emphasized that this collaboration will not only support jobs and economic activity but also benefit New Mexico communities and families.
Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller echoed the sentiment, highlighting that Cinelease's expansion in the city reinforces New Mexico's position as a prominent destination for the film industry. "This collaboration underscores our commitment to fostering a dynamic film community and creating more economic opportunities for our families," Mayor Keller said.
Gannon Murphy, from Cinelease Studios, emphasized the potential of New Mexico as an outstanding state for the entertainment business. He stated, "New Mexico is operating over current capacity. By expanding Cinelease Studios - Albuquerque, we are in a position to provide a home for future film and television in the state." Murphy also highlighted the company's dedication to empowering and training the growing workforce in collaboration with the community and various programs.
If all agreements are finalized, the expansion will not only bring additional job opportunities but also guarantee a production spend of at least $80 million a year, qualifying Cinelease as a New Mexico Film Partner. The economic impact of Cinelease's spending and expansion is projected to be $227 million over the coming decade, according to an analysis by the New Mexico Economic Development Department.
The recognition of Albuquerque as one of the top cities in the United States for filmmakers to live and work in further solidifies Cinelease's decision to invest in the city. Max Gruner, the economic development director for the City of Albuquerque, emphasized the significance of Cinelease's investment in Albuquerque's vibrant film industry. "This project not only secures jobs and economic growth but also cements Albuquerque's status as a premier location for film production," Gruner said.
Albuquerque's Film Liaison Cyndy McCrossen highlighted the importance of expanding sound stages in attracting more film productions to the area. She stated, "This initiative is poised to draw in an even greater number of filmmakers."
To support the expansion, the State of New Mexico has pledged $6.7 million from the Economic Development Department's job-creation fund, while the City of Albuquerque has pledged an additional $1 million from its municipal funding. The assistance will be provided in installments as the business meets specific economic development benchmarks. The planned expansion will be completed in two phases over the span of five years.
The decision by Cinelease to expand in Albuquerque is seen as a confirmation of the city's status as a premier location for the film industry. Danielle Casey, president & CEO of the Albuquerque Regional Economic Alliance, expressed her satisfaction with the company's choice and their commitment to investing in New Mexico's workforce.
Cinelease's expansion is also expected to have a positive impact on the local communities. The company has a strong commitment to volunteer work and anticipates an agreement with the New Mexico Media Arts Collective to assist with student workforce training and equipment donations. Cinelease will also continue to support local filmmakers through collaborations with local nonprofits.
With Cinelease's investment and expansion, New Mexico's film industry is set to experience significant growth, attracting more productions, creating jobs, and solidifying the state's position as a hub for the entertainment business.
