Belen Begins Feb. 17 Demolition of Anna Becker Park Gazebo

Belén began demolition of the long‑used gazebo at Anna Becker Park on Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2026, after the City of Belen Parks & Recreation Department said the structure could no longer be safely maintained. The city posted the notice under News Flash on Feb. 13, 2026, announcing the work and framing the removal as necessary for public safety.

The parks department warned in the public notice that "Unfortunately, the structure has reached the end of its usable lifespan and can no longer be safely maintained." The notice carried the clear start date language: "Beginning Tuesday, February 17, 2026, demolition of the gazebo will begin." The post ran on the city website under the Parks & Rec section and used the headline "IMPORTANT PARK UPDATE: Anna Becker Park Gazebo."

Municipal crews are slated to carry out the demolition, and Mayor Robert Noblin provided an additional timeline estimate on social media. Mayor Noblin wrote on Instagram: "According to Mayor Robert Noblin, the demolition will begin next week, which will take about six days. Soon after, the city will look at bids" That Instagram message also indicated the city plans to solicit or review bids following the demolition phase.

City officials emphasized that the park itself will remain open while crews work. The Parks & Recreation notice said, "Anna Becker Park will remain open during this time. We ask all visitors to please be mindful of construction activity, follow posted signage, and observe from a safe distance for everyone’s safety." The notice did not list any specific area closures, road changes, or assigned parking restrictions related to the demolition.

Parks & Recreation acknowledged the gazebo's community role in the notice, writing that "We know this gazebo holds a special place in the hearts of many in our community and has been the backdrop for countless celebrations, gatherings, and memories over the years." The department also signaled replacement plans: "The good news: ✨ Plans are already underway to construct a new gazebo in the near future, so Anna Becker Park will continue to be a welcoming place for celebrations and community events."

The city notice and the mayor's Instagram message outline next steps but leave several details open. The Parks & Recreation post and Mayor Noblin's comments do not include a contractor name, cost estimates, a bid schedule, or a firm construction timeline for the replacement gazebo. For now, demolition began Feb. 17 in Belen and is expected to proceed over several days while Anna Becker Park remains accessible with posted safety guidance.