Intel bringing 700 jobs and $3.5 billion to RR with plant expansion
Following the 30-minute conference, the “major players,” including those from Intel, Rio Rancho Mayor Gregg Hull, Sandoval County Commission Chairman David Heil, Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham and a trio of Congressional delegates from Washington, D.C., posed for a thumbs-up photo opportunity. Gary Herron photo.
Being mentioned on CBS-TV’s “60 Minutes” is one thing for Rio Rancho, but formally learning that Intel will invest $3.4 billion into its 40-year-old plant in the City of Vision is even bigger.
Intel CEO Pat Gelsinger appeared on “60 Minutes” May 2 to discuss the semiconductor crisis, confirming on the show that Intel’s Rio Rancho fabrication facility is due for a $3.5 billion upgrade.
City prepared for future water needs
The State of New Mexico and the City of Rio Rancho are investing in a water-rich future.
Water use has decreased in the state by reducing irrigated agricultural acreage and using better business practices, according to State Engineer John D’Antonio Jr.
The March 30 NAIOP meeting, “We’re in a Serious Drought,” dove into the issue of water in New Mexico and its future.
From 1995 to 2015, there was a 29 percent decrease in the water usage of irrigated agriculture in the state. More updated data will not be available until the end of 2021.
In 1995, New Mexicans used about 4.5 million acre-feet of water. An acre-foot of water is about 326,000 gallons.