Master plan proposal for Rio Rancho's former golf course reveals town center vision

The Rio Rancho Governing Body held a regular meeting on May 8, 2025, where significant discussions centered around the proposed master plan for the redevelopment of the former North 9 Golf Course. The meeting featured presentations from FBT Architects, including Art Tatum and Bruce Farmer, who outlined the design concepts for a new town center and business center aimed at revitalizing the area.

Key elements of the master plan include the creation of several new residential neighborhoods, such as Lux Vista and Nueva Esperanza, alongside a vibrant town center featuring retail spaces, restaurants, and a public plaza. The design emphasizes pedestrian-friendly access and aims to foster community engagement by encouraging residents to gather in the town center.

The plan also addresses infrastructure needs, including traffic management and drainage systems. A comprehensive traffic management report has been prepared to assess how the new developments will integrate with existing road networks. The proposal includes a neighborhood park and multi-use trails, enhancing recreational opportunities for residents.

Concerns from the community were acknowledged, particularly regarding drainage and traffic impacts. The developers assured that detailed studies will be conducted for each subdivision to ensure compliance with city regulations. Additionally, a public improvement district (PID) is proposed to fund infrastructure improvements, with no financial impact on existing residents of the nearby Chamisa Hills neighborhood.

The meeting concluded with a call for further community input as the project progresses. If approved, the master plan will pave the way for future developments, including individual neighborhood associations and commercial property management structures, ensuring that the new community is well-maintained and integrated into the broader Rio Rancho area.