Taos, NM – The Town of Taos announced today that the reconstruction of the Taos Youth & Family Center has begun. The work, which is being funded through a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) from the State of New Mexico at $1 million, is the first joint application by a town and county that has been approved by the State, and is being applauded as a model of cooperation. The Town of Taos and the County of Taos have each committed $50,000 for a total of $100,000 towards the project in matching funds. The work will likely be completed in August with a more than 20-year life span upon completion.

Constructed in 1999, the facility is showing serious signs of deterioration to the exterior walls and roofing, based on a report that was completed November 2014. Work will include retrofitting the skating rink roof with a new structure, replacing pool building walls, stuccoing of exterior walls and other potential work as funds become available. 

“The long overdue work on this facility is going to bring new life to a center that is used by many people throughout the year,” said Town of Taos Town Manager Rick Bellis. “We are looking forward to the completion of the revitalization in order to better serve those who visit this wonderful facility. In addition, the tournaments hosted at the facility have proven to be an important economic driver for the Town with annual revenues of approximately $2.34 million.”

The Taos Youth & Family Center serves more than 206,000 visitors a year, with more than 55 percent being children. The facility is a multicultural, multigenerational center. Located on a public transportation line, the center offers a 25-yard competition swimming pool, a warm water therapy pool, a National Hockey League sized ice skating rink and a skate park.

CDR Construction of Alamogordo has been awarded the construction contract.

Reporter’s Note: Media inquiries should be directed to Matt Kennicott at news@taosgov.com or (575) 751-2002.