The New Mexico Racing Commission met May 23rd in regards to a request for a discussion of application for 2009 racing dates in Moriarty, NM.
The Downs at Albuquerque is currently located at the State Fairgrounds in Albuquerque, NM. They are seeking to relocate because the current space is not sufficiently large enough for their needs. Downs President Paul Blanchard is seeking to move the Downs to Moriarty where he has a purchase option on 500 acres of land at the intersection of I-40 and NM 41. Currently, the Fairgrounds receive $2 million dollars in annual rent with the lease running until 2010. Blanchard has indicated that he will pay off the lease if he gets the green light on this project.
The proposed $65,000,000 complex will consist of:
- 1512 stalls
- 22 barns
- 1 mile race track
- Indoor equestrian center
- Outdoor show ring
- Advance vet clinic
- Private 4th floor grandstand suites
- Travel center - truck stop
- Multi story hotel
- RV Park
- Paddock
- Amphitheater
- Steakhouse
- Food court
- At least 5 bars
- 715 slot machines
This would bring 400 jobs to Moriarty, a rural town located approximately 40 miles east of Albuquerque.
Supporters of this complex include Steve Anaya (city councilman), Jim Frost (Torrance county commissioner) and Dennis Wallin (attorney and owner of Buford Steak House)
Douglas Mills, representing the Homestead HOA, raised concerns at today's meeting. He mentioned Moriarty's lack of 24-hour medical facilities and the increased traffic on a two-lane road to the facilities. I spoke with Linda Caudell, President of the Homestead HOA, today and she replied that they also have concerns about public safety and the potential of increased DWIs.
The commission tabled the matter for further consideration. There is also the concern that the move might not be in compliance with the state's tribal gaming compacts.
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Ashley Drake Gephart
Keller Williams Realty
Cell: 505.261.0389
Albuquerque Real Estate
Photos courtesy of Kitty Lee
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