The Lobos are looking to take the pack Downtown.
On Feb. 13, the city of Albuquerque and the University of New Mexico announced a new partnership to explore expanding UNM’s presence into Downtown Albuquerque, marking a significant step toward revitalizing the urban core and enhancing educational opportunities for the community.
The city of Albuquerque has land available at Third and Marquette and is offering it to UNM for the expansion.
“I look forward to the discussions as we explore developing a UNM campus in Downtown,” said District 2 City Councilor Joaquín Baca. “The conversations will provide opportunities to enhance the university’s presence as well as increase positive activity Downtown. We hope innovation will drive those conversations. Community engagement is crucial.”
A memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed by Mayor Tim Keller and UNM President Garnett S. Stokes solidifies the collaboration between the city and university to evaluate potential locations, identify academic program opportunities and determine the feasibility of a Downtown campus expansion.
“By exploring how to expand UNM’s footprint into Downtown Albuquerque, we’re reimagining how a modern urban university can serve its community,” Stokes said. “This expansion would put our students at the center of business innovation, cultural activity and civic life – creating unprecedented opportunities for hands-on learning and career development while helping drive Downtown’s renaissance.”
Keller said Arizona State brought new life and development to downtown Phoenix, and his administration is ready to help UNM yield similar results in Albuquerque.
“When universities expand Downtown, they create a powerful momentum for economic growth; now it’s our turn to transform the heart of our city to a hub where education, enterprise and community mix,” Keller said.
Under the agreement, UNM will evaluate academic program needs, infrastructure requirements, and community impact, while engaging faculty, students and community stakeholders in the planning process.
The city will provide technical support, explore financial mechanisms and assist with regulatory processes to facilitate the potential expansion.
Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Terri Cole and GACC Immediate Past Chair and Bohannan Huston CEO Bruce Stidworthy participated in the event.
