ABQ Times

ALBUQUERQUE – Mayor Tim Keller, along with approximately 400 community members, celebrated a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new headquarters of the Albuquerque Community Safety Department (ACS) at 1210 San Mateo Blvd. SE.

ACS is a pioneering department in the United States, marking its first permanent headquarters for an alternative health response department. Since its establishment two and a half years ago, ACS has responded to over 75,000 calls using a behavioral health model led by non-law enforcement personnel. Previously, many of these calls would have been handled by police and fire departments. Currently, ACS diverts around 3,000 911 calls from these departments each month.

As an innovative third branch of public safety in Albuquerque, ACS had previously operated out of temporary leased space at the Gateway Center property. The new 10,800-square-foot facility in the International District now serves as its permanent home.

“Today marks a milestone for behavioral response departments all across the country,” said ACS Director Jodie Esquibel. “Our team takes incredible pride in being a national leader and we look forward to continuing our growth alongside the community.”

Mayor Tim Keller highlighted Albuquerque's leadership in alternative first response during the ceremony: “Albuquerque is leading the nation in alternative first response, and ACS has become a blueprint for the rest of the country. By sending trained social workers and health workers to behavioral health calls, ACS has transformed public safety in Albuquerque, and now they have a permanent home base to continue growing and serving our community. ACS is here to stay.”

The event featured free food, drinks, music, and tours of the new facility. The building will house ACS staff and programs while also serving as a space for community resources and gatherings.

The new headquarters includes areas for an increasing number of ACS responders and staff as well as dedicated training spaces. It also features collaborative areas where community members, partners, responders, and administrative staff can work together to serve Albuquerque better.

Located in the International District Market area ensures that ACS remains connected with local communities. The $10 million project was funded through General Obligation Bonds.

Further expansion is planned with the opening of the Southwest Safety Center north of 98th Street and Rio Bravo in 2025. This center will be unique as it will accommodate APD (Albuquerque Police Department), AFR (Albuquerque Fire Rescue), and ACS staff under one roof.

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About Albuquerque Community Safety: ACS is Albuquerque’s third branch of public safety. Responders handle service calls involving behavioral health issues, substance use disorders, and other non-criminal or non-medical concerns. To request an ACS responder call 911 for emergencies or 311 for non-emergencies.