City prepares to open new RV clubhouse at Rodeo Complex

Visitors staying at the City of Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex RV Park will soon have a new place to unwind, shower and do laundry thanks to the completion of a nearly 1,900-square-foot RV clubhouse that is expected to be open in early March.

The modular building, which had been sitting unused at the rodeo grounds for about five years after being acquired from Socorro schools, has been fully renovated and repurposed into a dedicated space for RV guests.

“This modular building was sitting over here at the rodeo, and the mayor had an idea to try to get more business at the RV park,” said Lloyd Martinez, general services director for the city. “He wanted a place where people could take showers, do laundry and have a common area to relax after a long trip.”

City Administrator Donald Monette secured a $220,000 New Mexico True Destination Forward grant to fund the bulk of the project. The city contributed approximately $45,000 in additional funds to ensure the project was completed. 

Martinez said the grant funding allowed the city to transform the gutted modular structure into a modern, functional space. City crews from the water and street departments worked together to strip the building down to its frame to save money. Architectural plans were developed by NCA Architects, and Martinez oversaw permitting and subcontracted electrical, plumbing and framing work under his contractor’s license.

The clubhouse includes two handicap-accessible bathrooms, washers and dryers, a microwave, seating areas with a television and space for vending machines — including hot meal options expected to be installed soon. Outdoor amenities will include tables and barbecue grills.

Access to the building will be restricted to registered RV park guests through a changing door code system.

“There’s 50 spaces right now,” Martinez said of the RV park. “For high school rodeos, it’s packed. When there are roping events, it fills up. On regular days, we might see five to eight RVs, but we’re hoping this clubhouse will help bring more visitors, especially during slower times.”