Raton race track named at groundbreaking

New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson, was in Raton today for the groundbreaking ceremonies of the La Mesa Race Track and Casino, said T.J Mileta, Raton city manager.

"This was a tremendous day for Raton, north eastern New Mexico South eastern colorado," Mileta said. 

The groundbreaking ceremony were held at noon at Ripley Park, on North Second Street and Savage Avenue, said Sophie Martin, Raton's race track public information officer.

Martin said several of the project partners and supporters were at ceremony.  

Developer Michael Moldenhauer,  Raton Mayor Joe Apache, David Norvell, chairman of the New Mexico Gaming Control Board and Arnold Rael, chairman of the New Mexico Racing Commission were all in attendance.

Martin said project leaders estimate the Raton race track will bring more than 300 permanent jobs, more than $7 million in annual payroll and about $13.3 million in annual tax revenues to the state.

Tucumcari bid on the race track license that was awarded to Raton. 

Quay County Gaming Authority officials have said they are monitoring the progress in Raton. And, if Raton cannot meet the conditions of their license, the authority will make a second attempt to bring the racino to Quay County.