City Provides Update on Route 66 Visitor Center

Today, representatives from the City of Albuquerque's Department of Arts & Culture provided an update on the Route 66 Visitor Center. In addition to a tour, the department provided an overview of what has been done at the facility since the transfer of ownership from Bernalillo County to the City of Albuquerque earlier this year, an update on what still needs to be completed before a public opening, as well as plans for operations and programming moving forward.

Dr. Shelle Sanchez, director of Arts & Culture, shared the challenges the department has worked through since adding the facility to its collection of cultural venues and the vision to maximize the space to tell the story of Albuquerque's stretch of Route 66. 

"We're incredibly excited to begin programming this cultural facility with community events and museum-quality exhibitions," said Dr. Sanchez. "However, before we can open the doors to the public, there are essential steps we need to take to ensure the space is safe, compliant, and fully ready to serve the community in the way it deserves."

The department is eyeing a June 2025 public opening to coincide with the launch of the first summer of Albuquerque’s Route 66 Centennial Celebration. Though still on path to meet that target, the department has been working through a significant list of repairs, maintenance, and building systems needs. As of early August, most fire safety requirements had been met, including updated inspections to the fire alarms and fire suppression systems which were two years overdue. In all, 14 doors were repaired, including all external doors, due to missing parts or improper installation.

Still in need of repairs and inspections are the center's HVAC system, plumbing, irrigation, and elevators. Also on the current "to-do' list: audio/visual equipment installation; short-term exhibit upgrades; phone and networking systems; parking lot lighting; outdoor signage; contracts for landscaping, cleaning, and security; long-term plans for exhibits, and staffing.

"We're committed to navigating the challenges that come with preparing a building that hasn't yet been open for business," said Dr. Sanchez. "We're already exploring partnerships for collaborations, especially in the kitchen and tap room spaces, as well as for the cultural programming. By working with local businesses, artists, and organizations, we aim to create a dynamic experience for visitors."

Once ready for showtime, the Route 66 Visitor Center will be activated with a variety of public events like concerts, cultural performances, and engaging community programs. In addition, the facility will be available for private rentals, offering a unique venue for family celebrations, corporate functions, and other special occasions. The goal is to make the space a versatile gathering place that serves both public and private needs.

The $14 million, 21,000-square-foot facility was financed with state, city, and county dollars. The Bernalillo County Commission voted unanimously in February to transfer ownership of the property to the City of Albuquerque.