$1.2M Awarded for New Mexico Cultural Restoration

New Mexico Awards Nearly $1.2 Million in Historic Preservation Grants

Santa Fe, NM – The New Mexico Historic Preservation Division (NMHPD) has announced a notable investment in the state’s rich cultural heritage. Nearly $1.2 million in grants from the Cultural Properties Restoration Fund (CPRF) will be distributed among eight diverse historic preservation projects spanning from Taos to Portales.

This crucial funding will support the rehabilitation of historic buildings and the stabilization of archaeological sites, ensuring these invaluable pieces of New Mexico’s past are preserved for future generations.

Revitalizing New Mexico’s Cultural Heritage

“This statewide program enables us to support organizations working to preserve New Mexico’s cultural heritage, and we’re thrilled to see it continue to grow in its second year of funding,” said State Historic Preservation Officer Michelle Ensey.

The CPRF, revitalized through the Land Of Enchantment Legacy Fund, signed by Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham in 2023, and further bolstered by legislative investments in 2024, underscores the state’s commitment to preserving its unique identity. The New mexico Historic Preservation Division selected the eight projects after review and approval by the statewide Cultural Properties Review Committee.

Did You Know? The Land of Enchantment Legacy Fund not only supports historic preservation but also funds other critical state programs, ensuring long-term investment in New Mexico’s future. In fiscal year 2024, New Mexico’s historic preservation efforts also benefited from federal tax incentives, contributing over $20 million in economic impact.

Spotlight on Funded Projects

The selected projects showcase the breadth of New Mexico’s historical treasures. The funding increase of 20 percent over the 2024 cycle highlights growing support for preservation initiatives. projects were chosen based on their scope, adherence to preservation standards, and the urgency of the threats they address.

Below is a summary of the eight projects receiving funding:

Project	Location	Funding Amount	Description
Casa San Ysidro	Corrales	$250,000	Roof replacement on north and west wings of this historic house museum, dating back to 1875.
City of Albuquerque’s Special Collections Library	albuquerque	$250,000	Roof replacement to prevent water leaks in a John Gaw Meem-designed building.
Harwood Museum of Art	Taos	$225,000	Mold remediation, window sill restoration, and wall rehabilitation.
Hillsboro Community Center	Hillsboro	$189,300	Repair of adobe walls in the historic building, previously a high school.
City of Santa Fe	Santa Fe	$150,000	Update to the Acequia Madre listing in the New Mexico Register of Historic Places.
Salmon Ruins	San Juan County	$75,000	Stabilization efforts against erosion at this ancient Chacoan and Pueblo site and museum.
National Hispanic Cultural Center	Albuquerque	$46,140	Preservation assessment for its History & Literary Arts Building,a restored schoolhouse.
Eastern New mexico University	Portales	$10,181.21	Stabilization and preservation of archaeological features at the Blackwater Draw site.

The funding will be distributed as a lump sum through a Joint Powers Agreement, with each project expected to be completed within two years.

Pro Tip: Property owners seeking to undertake their own restoration projects should research available state and federal tax credits, which can significantly offset costs.

The Role of the New Mexico Historic Preservation division

the NMHPD plays a crucial role in managing and coordinating all historic preservation activities throughout the state.

From educating the public to safeguarding countless historic and archaeological sites, the division’s work touches every corner of New Mexico. Have you noticed a historic marker lately? Or perhaps admired a beautifully maintained building? That’s NMHPD at work.

Why Historic Preservation Matters

Historic preservation is not just about preserving old buildings; it’s about safeguarding our heritage, fostering community pride, and driving economic development. According to a 2023 study by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, historic districts generate 43% more jobs than areas without historic designations.

Preserving our cultural resources also provides invaluable insights into our past,allowing us to learn from previous generations and build a more lasting future. By investing in historic preservation, New Mexico is investing in itself.

Frequently Asked Questions About Historic Preservation in New Mexico

• What is historic preservation?

  Historic Preservation Is the effort to protect, conserve and rehabilitate buildings, landscapes, and other resources of historical or cultural significance.

• How can I get involved in historic preservation efforts in my community?

  Volunteer with local historical societies, attend public hearings on preservation projects, and advocate for preservation-kind policies at the local and state levels.

• Are there tax incentives for historic preservation?

  Yes, both state and federal tax credits are available for qualified rehabilitation projects. Consult with a tax professional to determine your eligibility.

• How do I nominate a property for listing on the New Mexico Register of Historic Places?

  Contact the New Mexico Historic Preservation Division for information on the nomination process and eligibility requirements.

• What resources are available for learning more about New Mexico’s history?

  Visit local museums, historical societies, and libraries. The New Mexico Historic Preservation Division also offers a wealth of information on its website.

What New Mexico historical site do you find most captivating? How can we better support cultural heritage initiatives in our communities? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

How will this funding impact the long-term sustainability of New Mexico’s cultural heritage?

New Mexico Awarded $1.2M for Cultural Restoration and Preservation

New Mexico’s rich cultural tapestry is receiving a significant boost! A considerable $1.2 million has been awarded to support vital cultural restoration projects across the state. This investment underscores the commitment to preserving New Mexico’s unique heritage for future generations. The funding will bolster a variety of initiatives focused on historic preservation, cultural education, and community engagement.

funding allocation and Project Scope

The $1.2 million in funding is strategically allocated to a range of projects aimed at safeguarding New Mexico’s diverse cultural landscape. The grants,managed by various state and local organizations,will focus on specific areas,including:

• Preservation of Historic Buildings: Restoration and maintenance of historically significant structures.
• Cultural Education Programs: Supporting workshops,training,and educational initiatives.
• Artifact Conservation: Preserving invaluable artifacts and documents.
• Community Outreach: Engaging local communities in preservation efforts.

This comprehensive approach ensures the preservation of both tangible and intangible cultural assets.The initiative represents a vital step in ensuring the long-term health and vitality of New Mexico’s cultural heritage. The primary goal is the preservation of cultural heritage which directly benefits the community.

Key Projects Benefiting from the Funding

Several key projects are slated to benefit from this significant financial infusion. These projects exemplify the diverse nature of New Mexico’s cultural restoration needs:

For instance, a portion of the funds is dedicated to the stabilization of the Old Town Church which currently needs structural repairs.Other projects include:

• Museum digitization: Digitizing archives, preserving and allowing ease of access to fragile items and documents.
• Native american cultural center enhancements: Funding for cultural centers in several pueblos in the state for education classes.
• Spanish Colonial architecture restoration: Restore historical adobe buildings.

The Impact on Local Communities and Tourism

The ripple effects of these restoration endeavors are expected to be substantial. The projects not only preserve history but also stimulate economic growth and cultural tourism, which is considered as a cultural tourism initiative.The restoration of historic sites and the expansion of cultural programs attract visitors, boosting local economies. These efforts will help boost the tourism industry and boost cultural economy.

Economic Benefits and Community Engagement

The revitalization of historic spaces generates jobs in construction, tourism, and related sectors. The infusion of funds is expected to promote cultural tourism. Here’s a look at the estimated benefits:

Benefit Area	Projected Impact
Job Creation	Increased local job opportunities.
Tourism Revenue	Increase in tourism to boost overall revenue.
Community Engagement	More interaction with local events

Community involvement is also a central focus, with many projects incorporating local residents in restoration and educational initiatives.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Cultural Preservation

The $1.2 million investment represents more than just financial support; it is indeed a commitment to preserving the heart and soul of New Mexico. The preservation efforts can pave the way for others to receive funding and invest more into the cultural heritage. Future projects are expected to include ongoing preservation efforts, expanded educational programs, and the use of technology for digital preservation and creating immersive cultural experiences. The ultimate aim is to secure the future.The future in cultural conservation means to work towards ensuring that New mexico’s cultural legacy endures for many years to come.