The End is Near as Plaza Improvements Enter Final Phase

March 16th, 2026

Project Overview

Known as the “Taos Plaza Infrastructure Improvements Project” the three‐phase effort was funded through local, state, and federal sources, including New Mexico MainStreet Capital Outlay, which allocated $1,000,000 for the entire endeavor.

To date, the project has included the replacement and modernization of the underground utilities; drainage and grading enhancements; installation of durable surfaces (new pavers, stairways and sidewalks); and the renovation of the historic Taos Plaza gazebo – including much-needed accessibility and safety features.

Phase I
Phase I and Phase II can be differentiated by the location of work that was done. The Phase I focus was on all underground, or sub-grade, necessities which were foundational to the remaining tasks that followed. This included vital utility upgrades and the bolstering of the groundwork beneath the center pad and quays.

Phase II
Phase II was primarily on the refurbishment of the Taos Plaza gazebo and major above-grade repairs, such as a new deck and lighting.

Phase III
Phase III will put the finishing touches to the inner ring of the historic zone, and will include the following actions:

· Removing old brick pavers and replacing them with new ones in the remaining untouched areas (which may require additional engineering).
· Installing new planters and benches throughout the space.
· Leveling the platform surrounding the Veteran’s Memorial to improve access to its base – thereby allowing contact with the statues and plaque.
· Constructing in-ground attachments to secure removeable shade structures slated for use during mid-day, summer events.
· Enlarging the gathering area for increased capacity and mobility.
· Rebuilding and repainting signs in the plaza.
· Replacing old light posts with new ones.
· Installing new camera system for improved security.

Timeline
The Taos Plaza Infrastructure Improvements Project began in 2020, with early goals focused on utility upgrades and foundational infrastructure. Initially, the plan was to complete the overhaul in 2022, but construction delays due to the pandemic and disruptions to the supply-chain caused the timeline to be extended.

In 2023, the Town of Taos finalized project sequencing and contractor coordination, and Phase I began. Later that year, Living Designs Group Architects (LDG) completed Phase 1 construction documents.

2025 Construction
2025 saw the initiation of Phase II, and active construction. Demolition of parts of the gazebo and the surrounding public space began in August, with work wrapping up in November of that year. The list of accomplishments included the complete renovation of the Taos Plaza gazebo; installation of new pavers on stairways and around planters; structural improvements to the various pedestrian passageways surrounding the gazebo; installation of new lamp posts – which were fitted with ready-made irrigation apparatuses – replacing outdated ones; and the addition of a new roof which was built on the small visitor kiosk on the east side of the plaza.

Throughout Phase II, weekly construction updates were issued by R&M Construction, LDG Architects, and Taos MainStreet.

2026 Construction
Currently, work in 2026 will include final surface treatments; accessibility refinements; landscaping and shade improvements; completion of remaining utility tie-ins; and preservation of the Veteran’s Memorial (as it stands) which is slated to begin March 16th. Accordingly, while no definitive final completion date has been announced, Taos County aims to finish this last stretch of demolition, earthwork, construction and inspections by late June – to coincide with the start of the summer tourist season.

Cohesive Collaboration
Throughout construction, all agencies have emphasized and demonstrated safety as a top priority. This included maintaining safe pedestrian access and clearances via fencing around the construction perimeters; and safe practices by laborers and skilled professionals. As much as possible, efforts were made to minimize disruption to plaza businesses and to preserve the historic character of Taos Plaza. Bi-weekly safety reviews reported no accidents, reflecting strong coordination among contractors and municipal staff. A formal ribbon‐cutting will be scheduled upon completion of the final construction phase.

Addendum
Taos MainStreet remains committed to delivering a revitalized Taos Plaza that honors its historic significance while supporting a vibrant, walkable, and economically resilient downtown. Taos MainStreet, acting as planning partner, community liaison, and capital outlay recipient was supported by the following agencies:

· Taos County – Project owner and primary contracting authority
· Living Designs Group Architects (LDG) –Architectural design and construction documentation
· R&M Construction – Lead contractor providing construction sequencing and safety oversight
· Benthouse Creative – Lead marketing and promotion firm providing public notice
· New Mexico MainStreet (NMMS) – Technical assistance and capital outlay administration for Phases 1–3
· New Mexico Economic Development Department (EDD) — Oversight of MainStreet capital investments
· State of New Mexico Legislature – Appropriated capital outlay funding
· Taos MainStreet Board and Committees
· Local businesses and Taos Plaza stakeholders
· Public safety and public works departments