New Mexico allocates nearly $100,000 to Labyrinth for ‘economic development’ – The Tri-City Record
Santa Fe Roundhouse. Nicole Maxwell/New Mexico Political Report
17 projects will receive grants totaling approximately $3.2 million
A New Mexico nonprofit is receiving a nearly six-figure grant from the state to build the largest permanent labyrinth in the U.S. State officials say it will provide a “significant boost” to the state’s economy.
Cancer Awareness, Prevalence, Prevention and Early Detection (CAPPED, Inc.) in Otero County will receive $99,999 from the Trails+ Grant program administered by the Outdoor Recreation Division of the New Mexico Economic Development Department, according to a department news release.
CAPPED will use the money to complete Phase III of the Trinity Turtle Healing Labyrinth. It will be a 3,700 square foot labyrinth that is ADA accessible and will serve as an outdoor theater and learning center.
It was one of 17 projects that received these grants totaling about $3.2 million.
“The Trails+ Grant provides a significant boost to the state’s economy and supports the growth of local communities by creating jobs for New Mexicans, many of whom live on tribal lands and rural areas,” said Mark Roper, acting cabinet secretary of the EDD, in the release. “We are excited about the opportunities this grant program provides for our state.”
Roper’s department did not respond to a request to explain how this would boost the state’s economic growth or what evidence he had to support this claim.
New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham launched the Outdoor Recreation Trails + Grant Program in 2019. The goal is to improve the state’s outdoor recreation opportunities, including trail systems, handicap-accessible outdoor recreation areas, wildlife viewing areas and signage.
“Strategic investments improve the quality of life for residents across New Mexico by stimulating regional economic development and increasing access to beautiful places like Las Maravillas Park in Valencia County and the cross-country ski trails outside of Los Alamos,” said Carl Colonius, ORD recreation planner, in the press release.
The state will provide over $11 million in Trails+ grants in fiscal year 2025. Applications for the first round must be submitted by September 30, 2024. Those interested in learning more about the grant program can visit NMOutside.com.
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