Farmington, New Mexico

8 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 3, ISSUE 3 level of recreation. They’re planning a river wave, which would provide permanent waves to the river that could be adjusted according to the river flow. “You could surf in it,” Duckett laughs. “You could take a surfboard out there and actually surf in the river. We think that would be a big attraction for our area.” It would also provide more dynamic opportunities for kayaking and rafting. Recently, a new rafting company opened up, providing tours out on the river. Unsicker hopes it’s just the start. “This is a great place to live and it’s a great place to retire,” says Duckett. “The real estate market is booming here. People are coming from the east and west coast looking for a place to live that provides them with the level and quality of life they’re looking for.” And with the lower cost of living in Farmington, folks are able to get a lot of house for their money. A new senior living facility is under construction in the downtown corridor, and the city is in talks with developers about the possibility of adding a 55+ communities to the area. “We are really excited to attract people to come in and enjoy their later years here in Farmington.” Unsicker adds, “They are looking to retire in a place where they can remain active.” FARMINGTON, NEW MEX I CO In addition to the plethora of outdoor activities and the great weather, another attractive feature to the community is San Juan College. The college provides educational programming and brings art and culture to the community. Seniors can take a course for fun through the Encore program that offers classes from pottery and art to history and fitness. They also have equipment rental, so folks can rent snowshoes, a mountain bike, or a kayak to try out an adventure without a huge commitment or price tag. Unsicker acknowledges, “We are lucky to have the college as a partner. It’s always surprising when people come to Farmington and see the property… you would think you were stepping into a four-year institution. The campus is beautiful. There is a performing arts center, a health education center that has a full-fledged gym, and numerous meeting spaces and sports fields. They are a stellar partner in workforce development because they are nimble in helping to create curriculum to meet the needs of industry. And they are ready and willing to partner with us as we have new companies coming to the area.”