News & Insights
Photo courtesy of: Greg Land
The University of New Mexico has taken the first step in a transformative effort to modernize University Stadium and reimagine its entire south campus as a vibrant mixed-use economic development district.
According to a press release issued by UNM, they have selected a joint proposal from New Mexico-based firm Dekker, and architecture firm Gensler, companies with extensive higher education and campus planning expertise, to lead a comprehensive feasibility study. B&D’s Venues Practice Group will also contribute to the athletics master plan for the south campus. The state-funded effort will evaluate University Stadium’s condition, including the fan and game-day experience, restrooms, concessions, premium amenities, and revenue opportunities.
The study will also produce renderings, phasing options, and cost estimates while considering expanded year-round uses such as high school championships, community gatherings, and statewide events. Results from the study are expected by early 2026.
A broader vision: mixed-use development
As reported in Sports Business Journal, the plan will also look at the South Campus Tax Increment Development District (TIDD). Created by state law in 2023, the TIDD is a collaboration among UNM’s Lobo Development Corporation, the City of Albuquerque, Bernalillo County, and the State of New Mexico. It is projected to generate approximately $267 million in infrastructure investment for public safety, transit, parking, pedestrian networks, trails, and recreation fields — all designed to support new economic growth.
This mixed-use concept draws on national trends, such as the future development around the University of Tennessee Knoxville’s Neyland Stadium, where sports venues are increasingly paired with retail, entertainment, housing, and commercial opportunities to create year-round destinations.
The study is expected to run between six and 12 months, with stadium-specific recommendations unveiled in early 2026. Early framework materials point to strategies that integrate student housing, retail, entertainment districts, workforce housing, and wellness facilities into a cohesive south campus district.
