Future of SunRay Park and Casino Hangs in the Balance
SunRay Park and Casino’s Future Uncertain After Relocation Plans
The upcoming San Juan County Commission meeting in Aztec, New Mexico, will focus heavily on the uncertain future of SunRay Park and Casino. The racino’s owners recently announced plans to move their long-established operation from Farmington to Clovis, sparking concern among local officials and residents who have relied on the casino for employment and tourism revenue for over twenty years.
Challenges Facing SunRay’s Current Operations
SunRay President Paul Blanchard recently confirmed a strategic decision to relocate the racino after experiencing significant financial difficulties. He explained that a dramatic 55% drop in casino income, coupled with lower attendance at both the racetrack and casino, made continuing operations in Farmington unsustainable. Additional pressures stem from the ongoing energy sector downturn in the region and increased competition from nearby tribal casinos.
The revenue decline has been too severe to be solved by rent reductions or facility upgrades alone.
Paul Blanchard, SunRay President
Blanchard emphasized that the move is essential for the casino’s viability. Unlike tribal casinos, New Mexico racetrack casinos are subject to higher taxes and must allocate 20% of their earnings towards horse purses. The Clovis location offers a chance to boost profitability and better support the state’s horse racing industry.
This relocation is expected to generate greater revenue for New Mexico, provide larger purses for horsemen, and increase the number of racing days.
Paul Blanchard, SunRay President
The proposed Clovis development would feature a 200-acre site on the town’s eastern edge, including a 1,600-meter oval racetrack, a 3,000-seat grandstand, a casino, hotel accommodations, and an RV park. The New Mexico Racing Commission is currently reviewing the proposal during a 45-day public commentary period. If given the green light, the new complex is scheduled to open by spring 2027.
Local Officials Respond to the Planned Move
While recognizing the business reasons for SunRay’s decision, San Juan County officials expressed surprise and disappointment, feeling they were kept uninformed. Senator Bill Sharer notably criticized the owners for their lack of transparency. Despite this setback, county leaders are exploring alternative uses for the Farmington site, suggesting activities like outdoor markets, motocross events, concerts, and other recreational opportunities to revitalize the area.
The departure of SunRay would create a significant economic hole in the community, as the racino currently employs 120 people and contributes approximately $1.2 million annually to county revenues. State Senator Steve Lanier warned that combined with energy sector difficulties, the relocation could slow the broader economic recovery of San Juan County.
The San Juan County Commission’s meeting on November 10 will provide a chance for the public to voice opinions and potentially influence the county’s official stance on the relocation. However, with the company’s focus shifting to Clovis, many in Farmington fear that the closure of one of their key entertainment and tourism venues is imminent.
