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It was big news this week. The state fair is moving.But a Target 7 investigation has revealed it could stay where it is, who could be paying for it, and what it could mean for Albuquerques troubled International District.While the state has issued a request for proposals to explore options for Expo New Mexico, home of the fairgrounds, there is a lot of uncertainty about what is now being called the largest public works project in state history.Concerns among local businessesJim and Rene Grout, whose family has operated an auto shop near San Pedro and Lomas for 70 years, worry about the uncertainty. We dont have any information about it. We dont have any details as far as what they want to do, Jim Grout said.Their shop has benefited from the proximity of the fairgrounds, which have been part of the neighborhood since 1939. The states announcement to explore new uses for the site including mixed-use housing, retail development and potentially a new stadium has left local business owners unsure about the areas future.I’ve heard about the low-income housing, and that’s what I’ve heard about, Jim Grout said. And I’ve heard that they’re going to take out all of the take the Coliseum and everything else out there. So, who knows what they’ve got planned for it.Deep dive: Target 7 InvestigatesA $500,000 study to guide decisionsGov. Michelle Lujan Grisham raised everyones curiosity this week when she hosted a news conference and said, We are identifying the future location of Expo New Mexico.And in doing so, she announced the state is willing to spend up to $500,000 for a study to determine the best course of action for the fairgrounds. Martin Chavez, a former Albuquerque mayor and now the governors senior advisor, is spearheading the project.All options are on the table, Chavez explained. That includes keeping the fair where it is and rebuilding in place, moving it redeveloping where the fair is, which would be a real boost for that part of the city of Albuquerque.Chavez acknowledged that the area around the fairgrounds faces significant challenges, including crime and economic decline. You cross Central from the fair; its a cesspool of crime and drugs and murder. Pharmacies have left, Walmarts gone, people are evacuating, Chavez said. This could change that trajectory entirely.The future of Expo New MexicoWhile the study will examine various options, the sites long-term leases and recent investments complicate the decision. Tingley Coliseum, for example, recently underwent $2 million in renovations. Chavez said, Im not sure they saw this initiative coming when they first appropriated the money for it.Chavez said there is interest from the private sector in building a new arena tied to an entertainment district, raising questions about the fate of existing facilities like the racetrack and casino, which are both under long-term leases.That’s something that has to be addressed and navigated, Chavez said. There are long-term leases in place. And, you know, I don’t know how those can be changed.Follow us on social: Facebook | X/Twitter | Instagram | YouTubeWhere could the fair move?If the fair is relocated, Chavez mentioned several potential sites, including Balloon Fiesta Park, Mesa del Sol, Edgewood and the far South Valley. He emphasized that funding for any relocation or redevelopment would not involve new taxes, relying instead on oil and gas revenue and private sector contributions.The funding would be private sector and then existing capital outlay from that legislature, Chavez said. So, no tax increases, nothing of that nature for the taxpayers to be concerned about.A tight timelineThe state has given companies just 45 days to submit proposals, a shorter time frame than the typical 60 to 90 days. Chavez said the urgency is driven by the upcoming legislative session, where lawmakers will be asked to make appropriations for the project.The governor wants it done yesterday, Chavez said, underscoring the push to gather data before mid-January.Action 7 News On The Go: Download our app for freeWhats next?With no final decisions made, many questions remain about the fairs future. Chavez hinted that the 2025 state fair could be the last one held at the current location. For now, businesses like the Grout familys auto shop remain hopeful the fairgrounds will stay.I like it where it is, Grout said. Its right across the street.Full Martin Chavez interview