Victory for Housing Reform: O-24-69 Passes!

We’re thrilled to announce the passage of O-24-69, a crucial step toward housing reform in Albuquerque! With a 7-2 vote, the City Council has approved changes to zoning and the appeals process that will make our city’s development more fair, transparent, and efficient. Councilors Peña (District 3) and Sanchez (District 1) voted against the bill, but the overwhelming support from residents and council members alike carried it forward.

This success wouldn’t have been possible without YOU—our members, supporters, and advocates. Your hard work made all the difference:

• Showing up: Many of you came to council to testify both in-person and on Zoom, bringing powerful stories and perspectives.

• Speaking out: Letters to councilors and public comments poured in, urging bold action for housing and fairness.

• Sharing our media: Posts and infographics supporting O-24-69 reached tens of thousands of people, building broad awareness and momentum.

• Engaging in discussion: You participated in forums, virtual events, and community conversations to galvanize support across the city.

• Reaching out: Your personal outreach to councilors reminded them of the urgent need for action and the community's demand for change.
  
  

O-24-69 is a vital step in addressing Albuquerque’s housing crisis and ensuring equitable opportunities for growth and development. It lays the groundwork for a city that works for everyone—both current residents and future generations.

While the work is far from over, this victory is worth celebrating. It’s a testament to the power of collective action, determination, and a shared vision for a better Albuquerque.

Thank you for everything you’ve done to make this possible. Together, we’re building a stronger, more inclusive city. Let’s take a moment to celebrate this achievement before we move forward with the next steps.

Downtown Vacancy Bill Passes 7-2!

We’re excited to share that O-24-61, an important ordinance addressing vacancy and underutilized properties in Downtown Albuquerque, passed with a 7-2 vote! Councilors Champine (District 8) and Sanchez (District 1) voted against the measure, but the overwhelming public support for this initiative was undeniable.

This bill introduces modest fees for vacant and abandoned properties in the heart of our city, incentivizing productive land use and discouraging prolonged neglect. By doing so, it aims to breathe life back into Downtown, starting with Central Avenue—Route 66, Albuquerque’s historic main street.

During the council meeting, comments were overwhelmingly in favor of the ordinance, with passionate testimony from residents, advocates, and community leaders. People spoke about the immense potential of Downtown and the urgent need to invest in its future. They shared the vision of a more vibrant, livable, and active urban core—a place where businesses, housing, and public life can flourish.

We’re hopeful that O-24-61, though a small step, will pave the way for significant, long-term transformation. By encouraging reinvestment in underused properties, this ordinance helps us move closer to the Downtown Albuquerque we all want: a thriving, dynamic heart of our city that reflects its rich history and bright future.

Thank you to everyone who supported this effort—whether by speaking at council, submitting comments, or sharing the message with others. Your advocacy and dedication are helping shape a stronger Albuquerque, one step at a time.

Let’s celebrate this success and continue working together to build a city we’re all proud to call home.

January Meeting

Next monthly meeting :

Wednesday,  January 15th 

6:00pm-7:30pm
 

Location: 

505 Food Hall, Humble Coffee Space

505 Central Avenue NW
Downtown Albuquerque

On the Agenda:

Curious about housing in New Mexico? Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from Daniel Werwath, the Governor’s Senior Housing Policy Analyst, as he presents on housing policy and the upcoming legislative session. 

 First-timers are always welcome! Whether you're new to Strong Towns or a seasoned advocate, no prior experience or special knowledge is required—just bring your curiosity and ideas.

Let’s work together to build a stronger, more vibrant Albuquerque. We’d love to see you there!

Reminder: Share Your Input on the Downtown 2050 Redevelopment Plan!

The Metropolitan Redevelopment Agency (MRA) is updating the Downtown 2050 Redevelopment Plan, and they want to hear from you! This is a great opportunity to help shape the future of Downtown Albuquerque and ensure it grows in a way that reflects the needs and aspirations of our community.

Public comment is open through Friday, January 10, 2025—just a few days left!

How to Participate:

Review the plan here: www.dtabqplan.com

Send your comments or feedback to mrainfo@cabq.gov with “Downtown 2050 Plan” in the subject line.

Let’s make sure our voices are heard and help guide Downtown Albuquerque into a vibrant, inclusive, and thriving future!

Announcing the Livable Albuquerque Fellowship – Applications Now Open!

Looking for a place to learn new knowledge and skills that could help make our community stronger? The Livable Albuquerque Fellowship is looking for applicants! It is a four-month program designed to empower community members with the knowledge and skills to make Albuquerque more affordable, sustainable, and vibrant!

The program begins in March 2025 and includes a speaker series and training sessions on topics like:

• Housing affordability

• Sustainable urban planning

• Equitable development

• Community advocacy

• And more!
  
  

Fellows will participate in 9 in-person evening sessions in/near Downtown and are asked to commit to attending at least seven of them. Best of all, the program is completely free, and graduates will receive a $500 stipend upon completion.

Apply Today!

Learn more and apply here: Livable Albuquerque Fellowship Application

We’d love for you to share this opportunity with your networks or apply yourself. Let’s work together to create a more livable Albuquerque!

I-25 S-Curve Project Comments Closed (for now)

A huge thank you to our members for submitting comments and supporting the no-build option for the I-25 S-curve project. Your voices have been crucial in advocating for sustainable, community-focused solutions over outdated approaches to traffic and safety. You have also helped change the conversation on highway projects in our state!

As this phase of the project wraps up, we will keep you informed about next steps and other opportunities to advocate for more equitable and sustainable transportation solutions in Albuquerque. Together, we’re making a difference for a healthier, more connected future.

Stay tuned, and thank you for your continued support!

January Team Meetings

Outer Districts Meeting Group (TONIGHT!)

Time and Date: Tuesday, January 7th
Location: Canteen Taproom

417 Tramway Blvd NE

Housing Task Force

January 9th, 2025

6:00pm-7:30pm

Little Bear Coffee Nob Hill

3123 Central NE

I-25 Task Force

January 27th, 2025

6:00pm-7:00pm

Flock of Moons Brewing Company

111 Harvard Drive SE

BikeABQ’s Monthly Meeting Kickoff – TONIGHT
BikeABQ is launching their new monthly general membership meetings, and you’re invited!

Where: Juno ABQ (1501 1st St NW, Albuquerque, NM)
When: Tonight, Tuesday, January 7th
Time: 7:00 PM

Special Guest: Dave Simon, Director of Parks and Recreation for the City of Albuquerque
Discussion Topic: Idaho Stop legislation in the state legislature