New Mexico State University’s Board of Regents has unanimously approved a groundbreaking 12-year agreement to develop a state-of-the-art soundstage for film, video game and television production at the Arrowhead Center, the university’s hub for business and technology innovation.
The decision, made during a meeting at Doña Ana Community College’s East Mesa campus on June 28, greenlights the construction of a $15 million complex. Funded by the New Mexico Economic Development Department, this facility will be leased to production companies, significantly expanding the film industry’s footprint in southern New Mexico.
The planned complex will include a 20,800-square-foot soundstage, a 10,400-square-foot production building, and an additional equipment storage facility. Soundstages are specialized environments designed for filming scenes with live audio, accommodating everything from elaborate sets to green screen technology, while providing ample space for equipment and crew.
A photograph of crew members at a soundstage was part of a presentation by the Arrowhead Center to the New Mexico State University regents on June 28, when the university approved an agreement to development a soundstage on campus.
This initiative marks a significant investment in the film and television industry in the Las Cruces area, distinct from the facilities being developed by California-based 828 Productions. Regent Deborah Romero highlighted the importance of this project, noting, “We’ve seen tremendous growth in the film industry in northern New Mexico, especially around Santa Fe. This is an opportunity to bring that same level of industry activity to the southern part of the state.”
In addition to its commercial potential, the Arrowhead Center’s soundstage project will have an educational impact. The New Mexico Higher Education Department will collaborate on a workforce development initiative, offering paid internships for students from NMSU and Doña Ana Community College. This program aims to cultivate local talent and attract more production projects to the region.
According to a presentation to the Regents, Arrowhead Center anticipates generating up to $500,000 annually from leasing the facilities. The project is also expected to boost the local economy by attracting production teams to the area. Arrowhead estimates that operating costs for the soundstage will break even at just 30% occupancy, with additional revenues earmarked for an operations reserve fund, maintenance and upgrades, and student support initiatives. Annual maintenance costs are projected to be $40,000.
The 12-year agreement includes a three-year development phase followed by 10 years of operation. After this period, the university will have the flexibility to repurpose the facility, in accordance with the terms set by the Economic Development Department, which is providing the project’s funding.
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NMSU approves development deal for $15M soundstage | Las Cruces Bulletin
