Sherman McCorkle Legislative Session and Local Government Advocacy Chair Sandia Science and Technology Park | Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce
The Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce convened its Board of Directors meeting on February 27, where several key updates were shared. Del Esparza, the board chair and CEO of Esparza Digital + Advertising, led the session held at the Chamber’s Downtown offices.
During the meeting, board members received a recap of Leadership Albuquerque’s "Government Day" on February 19. Participants engaged with various government perspectives in New Mexico through activities such as meeting Legislative Finance Committee Director Charles Sallee, touring the New Mexico Supreme Court with Senior Justice Michael Vigil, and discussing political dynamics with Santa Fe Mayor Alan Webber.
Terry Brunner, director of the Metropolitan Redevelopment Agency, briefed attendees on developments concerning Downtown Albuquerque. He highlighted an agreement between the University of New Mexico and the city to expand UNM's presence Downtown. Brunner noted that "the move Downtown is happening because UNM is completely renovating everything north of Lomas Boulevard," potentially relocating KNME and possibly the UNM School of Law closer to civic amenities.
Brunner also discussed potential changes along Central Avenue following Hotel Arrive's opening and mentioned plans to close sections for future programming initiatives. The city has supported these efforts through industrial revenue bonds and public art funding for a lowrider mural.
Martin Chavez provided insights into Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham’s vision for Expo New Mexico. He outlined a plan to transform it into mixed-use housing, retail, and entertainment areas. A request for proposal was issued for redeveloping this 236-acre site located on Central Avenue.
Chavez conveyed that there is consensus among local officials about the need for change in this area: “The area where Expo New Mexico is located on Central Avenue is just ‘human misery,’” he stated after consultations over six months with elected officials whose districts include this region.
