Gov. Bill Richardson said he would seek Legislature approval to spend $15 million to upgrade University of New Mexico athletics facilities.
The governor said he would push for $8 million for Pit expansion, $6 million for an indoor practice facility to be used by the football team and other outdoor sports and $1 million for a men's and women's soccer facility.
"The Lobos are the heart and soul of Albuquerque and New Mexico," Richardson said. "It's economic development, it's tourism, it's not just the university."
Richardson said the money will come from the governor's discretionary capital outlay budget and should be approved by the Legislature without a hitch.
Regent president Jamie Koch said it is the largest donation to the UNM athletics department awarded by any governor in the history of the state.
Richardson called The Pit a national icon and the face of New Mexico.
"The years have taken its toll and it's time to give the grand building a facelift," he said.
The $8 million will be used to renovate restrooms and concession stands and expand the concourse. Richardson said the money is a down payment toward a major expansion project he hopes to see completed within two years. He said part of the $8 million will pay for a feasibility study to determine the best way to expand The Pit without hurting the integrity of the arena.
The $6 million award, combined with a $1 million donation by ex-Lobo football star Brian Urlacher, will cover the expense of a new football practice facility.
New Mexico coach Rocky Long has long campaigned for the practice facility, which he said is essential to keeping the Lobos competitive.
"I can't even begin to say how happy and excited I am about this," Long said "This is huge for football and every outdoor sport at the university."
The final $1 million is a down payment toward a $3 million soccer facility for the men's and women's soccer programs.

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