Bernalillo County broke ground Sept. 19 on the next phase of renovations at Los Vecinos Community Center in Tijeras.
According to a press release from the county, the event celebrated the start of several improvements, including a new multisport court, new playing fields, a new stage and other special events amenities, a new skate park, ADA accessibility upgrades, a new drop-off area and enhanced parking. The renovations are funded by $4.8 million from the American Rescue Plan Act, and a $1 million appropriation from the Bernalillo County General Fund.
“I’m thrilled to see these renovations at Los Vecinos Community Center getting started,” District 5 Commissioner Eric Olivas said in the release. “This is one of the oldest community centers in the county and our goal was to create a space that brings people together and enriches the lives of residents of all ages. Now we can deliver on that promise by creating this community hub, which will continue to serve the East Mountain community for many years to come.”
In addition to the skate park, accessibility upgrades and new recreation amenities, the project will also include upgrades to the existing playground, shade structures, drainage facilities, and irrigation system and water well improvements. New lighting fixtures and the new multiuse court will support additional activities in the park such as pickleball, futsal and basketball.
Los Vecinos Community Center is the second oldest in the county’s inventory, and was originally built on land acquired for the first East Mountains fire station.
Following the groundbreaking, the county held a public input meeting where residents could weigh in on future projects coming to surrounding areas, including Sedillo Ridge and Tijeras Creek.
In August, the Bernalillo County Commission approved the use of the Cooperative Educational Services Agreement for the renovation of Los Vecinos Community Center Parks. The motion, sponsored by Olivas, kicks off a significant project to revitalize the community center.
“Los Vecinos Community Center is not just one of the oldest centers across the county, it’s a pillar of the East Mountain community,” Olivas said. “This renovation will greatly enhance this, and by extension, greatly improve the experience our residents will have.”
