The New Mexico Tourism Department (NMTD) has announced funding for 14 projects under its Destination Forward Program for fiscal year 2026. A total of $1.8 million will be allocated to support tourism-related infrastructure projects across the state.
"Thoughtful investments in tourism-related infrastructure are essential for proper destination stewardship," said Acting Secretary Lancing Adams. "Now entering its third year, Destination Forward is becoming an increasingly valuable element to our mix of programs that serve the needs of communities throughout New Mexico."
Destination Forward began in fiscal year 2024 with $1,896,471 awarded to 10 projects and increased to $2,350,287 for 12 projects in FY25. The program aims to enhance visitor experiences at tourism-related sites statewide.
Among the funded projects is the Town of Red River's plan to install digital information kiosks with a grant of $40,634. Picuris Pueblo received $200,666 for museum facility upgrades. The City of Bayard was granted $100,000 for designing the Mine Mill Museum.
Taos County will use a $22,300 grant to develop an online platform showcasing cultural assets. Chaves County's cultural plaza project received $183,100. Clovis plans a master plan for Hillcrest Park Zoo with a $100,000 grant.
Other recipients include the Town of Springer with $70,000 for museum improvements and Peñasco Valley Historical Preservation Society with $187,000 for high school preservation. Farmington was awarded $100,000 for an exhibit design.
Jemez Community Development Corporation received $38,800 for adventure park development. Gallup was granted $50,000 for a Route 66 exhibit. Santa Clara secured $350,000 for pedestrian path construction.
The New Mexico Steam Locomotive & Railroad Historical Society obtained a grant of $100,000 for an economic impact study. The Anderson Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum Foundation received $257,500 for an outdoor exhibit space.
Additionally, two Accessibility Pilot Grants were awarded: Farmington received $25,000 and Albuquerque International Sunport got $75,000 to improve accessibility facilities.
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