The 7 Biggest Upgrades And New Programs At City Of Albuquerque Parks And Recreation (2025 Update)

The City of Albuquerque Parks and Recreation Department (CABQ PRD) is currently undergoing one of its most significant periods of expansion and modernization, with major renovation projects and new community programs rolling out across 2024 and 2025. As of today, December 14, 2025, the department is focused on enhancing green spaces, developing state-of-the-art recreational facilities, and expanding crucial youth and senior services to ensure every Burqueño has access to quality outdoor and indoor activities. This comprehensive update details the freshest news and biggest capital improvements from the CABQ PRD, including the completion of major park phases, new program launches, and unique community initiatives that are transforming Albuquerque's recreational landscape. The department’s commitment to providing quality, affordable facilities is evident in the scale and variety of these recent developments.

Leadership Profile: Director Dave Simon and the Department's Vision

The City of Albuquerque Parks and Recreation Department is led by Director Dave Simon, who brings over 35 years of extensive experience in the parks, conservation, and recreation fields. His leadership is instrumental in driving the department’s current vision, which emphasizes both large-scale capital improvements and localized community engagement. Simon’s tenure has focused on leveraging the city’s natural assets, such as the Rio Grande Bosque, while modernizing core infrastructure like the city's network of community centers and sports fields. The department operates a vast network of facilities, ensuring coverage across all quadrants of Albuquerque. Key Divisions and Facilities Managed:

• Open Space Division (managing over 28,000 acres)
• Aquatics (Swimming Pools and Splash Pads)
• Golf Courses (including championship courses)
• Community Centers (a network of 18 centers)
• Senior & Multigenerational Centers
• Sports Complexes and Athletic Fields
• Dog Parks and Skate Parks

The 7 Biggest Capital Projects and Program Updates (2024–2025)

The past two years have seen a massive investment in Albuquerque’s public spaces, with several multi-million dollar projects reaching completion or entering their final phases. These updates reflect a strategic effort to diversify recreational offerings for all age groups.

1. Los Altos Park Phase 2: The New BMX Pump Track and Dog Park

One of the most anticipated completions is the second phase of renovations at Los Altos Park, which officially opened in May 2025. This $10 million phase introduced Albuquerque's first dedicated BMX Pump Track, a major new amenity for cycling enthusiasts. The improvements also include a significant new Dog Park and a continuous pedestrian spine that connects the softball complex, pool, skate park, and horseshoe complex, creating a truly integrated recreational hub. This development makes Los Altos Park a premier destination for action sports and pet owners in the city.

2. Phil Chacon Park's Major Renovation and Expansion

The Phil Chacon Park renovation is a massive undertaking, with construction continuing and expected to be complete by late spring 2025. The project, which involves a multi-million dollar investment, is poised to transform the park into a modern, comprehensive recreational area. Updates to the park include extensive site plan construction, new amenities, and landscaping, making it a cornerstone for the community in the Northeast Heights. The renovation is one of the largest single park projects currently underway.

3. New Sports Fields at Westgate

In a major win for youth sports in Southwest Albuquerque, the city celebrated the opening of nearly 4.8 acres of new turf fields in the Westgate area. These new, high-quality fields provide much-needed capacity for local youth leagues and community athletic events, underscoring the department’s focus on supporting organized sports.

4. Altura Park's Ecological Upgrades

Altura Park received notable upgrades throughout 2024, focusing on environmental sustainability and green infrastructure. These improvements included the planting of nine new trees and the establishment of a dedicated pollinator garden. This initiative highlights the CABQ PRD’s commitment to enhancing the ecological health of its neighborhood parks.

5. Honoring Local Heroes: New Signs for City's Hero Dogs

In a heartwarming and unique community initiative, the Parks & Recreation Department unveiled a new series of signs honoring the city's "Hero Dogs." These signs, installed at various dog parks, feature the photos and accomplishments of working dogs from the Albuquerque Fire Rescue (AFR), the Albuquerque Police Department (APD), and the Bernalillo County Sheriff's Office. The signs serve as a tribute to these service animals, such as the APD K-9s and AFR's Wrigley, acknowledging their positive impact and dedication to public safety.

6. Expanded Youth and Family Programs for 2025

The department continues to be a primary provider of affordable, quality programming for Albuquerque's youth. The 8-week Community Center Summer Recreation Program is a perennial favorite for children ages 5 to 15. For the 2025-2026 season, the PLAY+ programs are set to begin on August 11, 2025, offering robust before and after-school care. Furthermore, the department offers paid youth summer jobs and internships, including roles like Youth Nature Guides and Lifeguard positions, for teens aged 14 and up.

7. Open Space Division's Ongoing Infrastructure Projects

The Open Space Division is actively engaged in several large-scale projects, including major construction for a new site plan slated to begin in August 2024. Additionally, improvements to the crucial Rio Grande Bosque access points are underway, including the construction of new stairs and ramps to enhance accessibility for the public. These projects ensure the preservation and responsible use of Albuquerque’s vast natural areas.

How to Access Albuquerque's Recreational Facilities

Accessing the city’s extensive network of facilities is simple and affordable. The 18 Community Centers, such as the Don Newton-Taylor Ranch Community Center, offer memberships that include access to fitness rooms, gymnasiums, computer labs, and various free classes. The city’s Aquatics division manages numerous pools and splash pads, which are essential for Burqueños looking to beat the summer heat and stay active. Information on all facilities, including operating hours for the Senior & Multigenerational Centers, can be found directly on the City of Albuquerque’s official website. By consistently investing in these public spaces, the City of Albuquerque Parks and Recreation Department is ensuring a higher quality of life for all residents.