Downtown Transformation
Creating a Vibrant Live/Work/Play Environment in the Core of Our City
Our Goal
Work with business, government, and community partners to revitalize and transform Downtown Albuquerque into the vibrant heart of our city – an area that is exciting, engaging, welcoming, and safe for businesses, residents, and visitors alikeOur Core Beliefs
- Successful and thriving cities tend to have a vibrant downtown, bustling with people.
- Successful downtowns have a diverse economic base, with adequate housing, shopping and dining options, entertainment venues, public transit, and open spaces that support congregation and recreation.
- Addressing the persistent problems of crime and homelessness is necessary to revitalizing Downtown Albuquerque.
- Investing in game-changing development projects will increase the appeal of Downtown, broaden its range of uses, and attract more visitors and employers.
- Transforming the downtown area will bring economic and quality-of-life benefits for the entire city.
The Chamber’s Downtown Transformation Policy Planks:
- Reduce the prevalence of homelessness and crime in Downtown Albuquerque
- Revitalize and renew historical buildings, routes, and spaces
- Explore new transformational projects and attractions for the downtown area
Progress and Initiatives
The Albuquerque Rail Trail
- Secure local, state, and federal funding – as well as public support – for the ongoing development of a nearly 7-mile trail connecting key parts of the greater downtown area.
High-Quality Hub for Homeless Sheltering and Services
- Support the swift scaling up of the Gateway Center as originally intended – a 24/7 shelter and coordinated service center for the homeless.
Business Improvement District (BID)
- Launch a Downtown business improvement district, allowing businesses to pool and spend resources on downtown-specific marketing, beautification, special events or markets, homeless interventions, and additional public safety improvements.
Crime-Fighting Resources and Coordination
- Support City- and county-led efforts to bring a greater police presence to Downtown, including more officers; security cameras tied into city-wide, real-time monitoring; and technology.
SEARCHING FOR THE PERFECT SPOT: City continues to work on making Downtown parking more accessible
On Sept. 11, the city’s Metropolitan Redevelopment Agency held an open house to discuss the city’s Downtown Parking Study. The survey — which was available ...
Read More
MAPPED FOR MOMENTUM: Albuquerque, Las Cruces rank in top 10 study for overall economic growth
According to a new study released by CoWorkingCafe, Albuquerque ranks at No. 9 on the list among U.S. cities for overall economic growth, earning 59.4 ...
Read More
CONGRATULATIONS!: Titan Development breaks ground on food hall, hotel near Presbyterian
After months of preparation, Titan Development broke ground a hotel and food hall on Central Avenue near Presbyterian Hospital. On Friday, Aug. 8, Titan partner ...
Read More
GETTING DOWN TO BUSINESS: Downtown Transformation Bold Issue Group (BIG) kicks off first meeting of the program year
From left, David Silverman, Geltmore principal; Doug Majewski, Hartman + Majewski Design Group CEO; William Keleher of Smidt, Reist & Keleher, P.C.; Sherman McCorkle, GACC ...
Read More
PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE: City continues work on two Rail Trail projects in Old Town, Downtown
Construction continues on The Rail Trail — a seven-mile multi-use trail the Chamber has long supported — which will connect Downtown Albuquerque and Old Town. ...
Read More
SEEKING INPUT:Â Bernalillo County hosting community meetings on economic development
Bernalillo County wants business input and suggestions for its economic development program – and we appreciate the outreach to our membership! Creating jobs and ...
Read More
GETTING PROJECTS DONE:Â Bernalillo County Commission approves resolution to accept $25.9 million in capital outlay
The Bernalillo County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a resolution last month to formally accept $25.9 million in capital outlay appropriations from the New Mexico ...
Read More
A BALANCING ACT:Â Albuquerque ranked No. 17 in ‘Best U.S. Cities for Work, Life and Mental Health Balance’
In 2025, work-life balance is no longer a perk — it’s a priority. As remote and hybrid work continue to reshape daily life, more ...
Read More
FIGHTING FOR A CAUSE: Chamber lends support to water regulation amendments
On July 3, Peter Lorenz, Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce Chairman of the board and CEO of Unirac Inc., and Terri Cole, GACC president and ...
Read More
TWENTY-FOUR HOUR DESTINATION City of Albuquerque releases its Downtown 2050 Metropolitan Redevelopment Area Plan
Downtown revitalization. It’s a big undertaking, and the city is working toward it with the release of its Downtown 2050 Metropolitan Redevelopment Area Plan last ...
Read More
Learn more about how to support the downtown transformation.
The Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce is committed to revitalizing our city’s iconic downtown. To learn more about our lobbying and other efforts toward that end, contact the Chamber today.