Funding for NMSU Alumni Pond reconstruction, Aquatics Center renovations approved

New Mexico State University is making the next moves to bring the Aggie Alumni Pond back to life and also sharpen up the Aquatics Center with a projected start date in July.  
 
On June 6, the NMSU Board of Regents approved the two major project budgets during a special meeting. This funding includes $1.3 million for the Alumni Pond reconstruction and $2.32 million for critical renovations to the Aquatics Center.  
 
Berta Zubiate, the university architect, presented the projects to the board and stated that these budgets reflect the base scope of work required to restore both facilities. “Both projects will go to the Higher Education Department on July 9, followed by the State Board of Finance. Those are the final steps needed to move forward,” Zubiate said.  
 
Construction for the Alumni Pond is anticipated to start in July, with a projected completion by November. The design for the pond was completed in December 2024. As for the Aquatics Center, the design is scheduled to take place from June to September, with construction planned from September to June 2026.  
 
“Both timelines are aligned to minimize campus disruption and restore these spaces as quickly as possible,” Zubiate said. “During construction, temporary fencing and restricted access will be in place around the project areas to ensure the safety of all personnel. We are coordinating closely with campus partners to limit disruptions to day-to-day university operations and pedestrian circulation.”  
 
Upon completion, Zubiate said that Alumni Pond will be fully restored with a concrete-lined basin, a solar-powered aeration system to support water quality, and accessible shade and seating areas. The existing deteriorated bridge will be removed, improving both safety and aesthetics.  
 
The Aquatics Center will be upgraded with modern and energy-efficient mechanical systems, resolving long-standing operational and maintenance issues, along with replacing equipment that has exceeded its service life and enhancing the overall user experience.  
 
“These projects aim to preserve essential campus amenities while improving sustainability, safety and long-term functionality,” Zubiate said.  
 
To raise additional funding for Alumni Pond improvements, the NMSU Foundation and NMSU are collaborating to launch a fundraising campaign this summer, which will support enhancements such as a new pedestrian bridge, lighting, landscaping and other features that will bring the space back to life.  
 
“So many Aggies have special memories connected to Alumni Pond — it’s one of those places that feels like the heart of our campus,” said Mayra Marquez, assistant vice president for the NMSU Foundation Alumni Relations and Annual Giving. “We’re excited to invite alumni and friends and the entire Las Cruces community to be part of bringing it back to life. Every gift, big or small, will help create a beautiful space where future Aggies can make their own memories.”  
 
To contribute to the Alumni Pond Restoration fund, visit https://alwaysanaggie.org/donate/alumni-pond/.