Roswell - Governor Susana Martinez and Economic Development Cabinet Secretary announced $100,000 in capital outlay funding today for MainStreet Roswell for use toward updates to Reichman Memorial Park in downtown Roswell. The city of Roswell identified this as a priority project during the creation of its downtown master plan. State funding for the park will cover the construction of a performance stage, seating and lighting in addition to landscaping, irrigation, ADA compliance and façade and ironwork repairs.
"Revitalizing our historic downtowns is an important piece of economic development and a proven job creator," Governor Martinez said. "To be able to provide a destination for residents and tourists alike to gather for events here in Roswell will help local businesses and restaurants in addition to improving the quality of life for all."
In the 1980s, the Reichman family donated the vacant parcel of land to the city of Roswell to be utilized as a park and gathering place for the community. Constructed more than 30 years ago, the Reichman Memorial Park is currently in need of renovation and repairs in order to bring the park back to functional use. It will also be redesigned as a venue for community events and gatherings.
"The New Mexico MainStreet program is a cornerstone for our rural economic development efforts," Secretary Barela said. "Last year, MainStreet helped with the creation of 622 jobs and assisted in the startup or expansion of several dozen businesses in traditional areas of commerce."
The city of Roswell has also committed matching funds for street, curb and sidewalk improvements as well as electrical upgrades for the park. Private funds will also be raised by the Roswell Inter-Arts Organizations for the project. For every dollar invested by New Mexico taxpayers, on average $19 of private funds are raised to support MainStreet. Since tracking the MainStreet results as of 2003, MainStreet assisted in the startup of 37 new businesses, the expansion of 11 and assisted in 41 building renovations in Roswell.
During the 2013 Legislative Session, Governor Martinez and Secretary Barela supported appropriation of $1 million in funding for the New Mexico MainStreet program, $500,000 of which is dedicated to capital projects around the state.