$200,000 Budget Set for New South Valley War Memorial Sculpture

Bernalillo County residents can expect a new monumental sculpture in the South Valley as the local Arts Board opens the call for submissions. The commission aims to honor Chief Warrant Officer Richard Rocco, a native of the area who received the Congressional Medal of Honor. Artists across New Mexico may now apply to design and build the piece.

The county has allocated a total of $200,000 for the project. This figure covers the entire cost structure, including the artist’s design process, fabrication of the materials, transportation, and final installation. The successful candidate will manage these expenses within the fixed budget.

The selected artwork will be installed at Richard Rocco Memorial Park. The site is located at 1250 Isleta Blvd. SW, adjacent to the West Side Community Center. This placement ensures the memorial remains accessible to the community near the Isleta Boulevard corridor.

Richard Rocco served as a U.S. Army medic during the Vietnam War. In 1968, his helicopter was shot down, and he risked his life to save his fellow soldiers. President Gerald Ford awarded him the Congressional Medal of Honor in 1974. Rocco also received the Bronze Star and Purple Heart for his military service.

Kent Swanson, the Public Art Program Coordinator, handles inquiries regarding the project. Applicants can reach him at 505-350-0144 or by email at kswanson@bernco.gov. The Arts Board will review the submitted proposals to select the artist for this permanent public installation.

The memorial will stand as a public tribute in a park named for the recipient. The commission represents a direct investment in local art and historical recognition within Bernalillo County.