The City of Albuquerque and the New Mexico Commissioner of Public Lands have collaborated to facilitate the expansion of the New Mexico School for the Blind and Visually Impaired (NMSBVI). This initiative involves a lease agreement for a vacant piece of state trust land, which the city will sublease to NMSBVI. The Albuquerque City Council approved this lease agreement at its meeting.
Dr. Heather Miller, NMSBVI Superintendent, expressed gratitude: “The New Mexico School for the Blind and Visually Impaired is very thankful to the NM State Land Office and the City of Albuquerque for partnering with us to acquire the needed property adjacent to our Early Childhood Program facility through this lease agreement to make these expansion and improvement plans a reality.”
Leasing the unused lot adjacent to NMSBVI’s existing campus will allow the school to expand its Early Childhood Program. The project, planned in multiple phases, includes enhancements such as an improved bus drop-off area, additional parking, a new kitchen and cafeteria, and new playground equipment.
Mayor Tim Keller highlighted the importance of supporting NMSBVI's mission: “This school plays such an important role in our community and provides opportunities to some of the most underserved populations in Albuquerque.”
Commissioner Garcia Richard emphasized the significance of funding institutions like NMSBVI: “The work we do at the State Land Office is important because it funds invaluable institutions like the New Mexico School for the Blind and Visually Impaired."
The project carries no fiscal impact on Albuquerque. The lease term for the state-owned lot is forty years, with an annual cost set at $8,148.00 plus a 3% annual escalation, paid by NMSBVI. All payments will be made directly to the State Land Office.
District 9 City Councilor Renee Grout remarked on safety improvements: "This expansion will increase safety for student drop-off and enable the school to offer services to first- and second-graders as well."
Economic Development Director Max Gruner noted that enhancing NMSBVI facilities benefits both students and the community: “Enhancing the facilities at NMSBVI will not only improve the daily experience for students but also provide a lasting benefit to our entire community.”
This project aims to positively impact NMSBVI while generating revenue for New Mexico’s schools and presenting potential economic development opportunities for Albuquerque.
