ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — New Mexico United fans are one step closer to seeing their team in a permanent home.
A New Mexico District Court judge has dismissed a lawsuit that had threatened to halt development of a new stadium at Balloon Fiesta Park. The ruling affirms the authority of the Environmental Planning Commission (EPC), which approved the stadium project last November.
“This project represents more than a soccer stadium,” said Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller. “It’s the culmination of decades of effort and location changes to make generational investments that will create safe ‘third places’ for our families to gather.”
The City of Albuquerque and New Mexico United have worked together for years to identify a suitable site. Balloon Fiesta Park was ultimately selected for its accessibility, parking, and potential to complement existing park programming.
Key Details of the Stadium Project:
- Location: Balloon Fiesta Park
- Capacity: 8,000 to 10,000 seats
- Funding: Stadium funded by New Mexico United; infrastructure by the City
- Investment: United will invest a minimum of $30 million
- No City funds will be used for stadium construction
The stadium is expected to host not only United matches but also high school tournaments, a potential professional women’s team, and other community events. The City has already made significant upgrades to Balloon Fiesta Park, including new bathrooms, electrical systems, and thousands of new parking spaces.
Peter Trevisani, CEO of New Mexico United, celebrated the court’s decision:
“We are thrilled with the District Court’s ruling that agrees with the EPC’s decision to allow the New Mexico United Stadium at Balloon Fiesta Park.”
New Mexico United, currently ranked 1st in the USL standings, plays at Isotopes Stadium, which must be converted from a baseball field to a soccer pitch for each game. The new stadium will provide a dedicated venue for the team and its fans.
