ABQ Times

Councilor Joaquín Baca and officials from Albuquerque Public Schools inaugurated a new art trail in Downtown Albuquerque. The project features artwork created by students from Amy Biehl High School and Lew Wallace Elementary School.

The initiative is part of efforts to revitalize downtown areas across the United States, with local governments focusing on collaboration and partnerships to enhance community connections. Students are at the forefront of these projects, contributing significantly through their involvement.

Tanya Silva, a Fine Arts Educator, emphasized the importance of student participation: “Volunteering in our downtown community connects us with the heart of our city, where each student can make a lasting impact. Through efforts like the APS Creative Campus Collective, we see firsthand how our time and talents can fuel a thriving, vibrant arts scene that benefits everyone. Together, we’re not just supporting a location; we’re building a legacy of creativity, community, and growth.”

Melanie Telles, Principal at Lew Wallace Elementary, highlighted the role of arts in education: "Supporting Creative Campus initiatives is essential to fostering innovation, expression, and community. Arts are at the heart of a vibrant, forward-thinking education."

Stephanie Becker, Executive Director at Amy Biehl High School (ABHS), noted the long-term impact on students: “Creating a collaborative legacy and exciting art projects with APS Campus Creative and Amy Biehl HS youth will bring a new vitality to the city core. These students will be long-term stakeholders in our downtown efforts.”

The partnership between Albuquerque District 2 City Councilor Joaquín Baca, Albuquerque Public Schools, and the Metropolitan Redevelopment Agency aims to enhance beautification and foster community ownership. As part of this effort, ABHS students designed artwork for trash can wraps along Central Avenue and developed a trail connecting both schools.

This art project seeks to improve pedestrian experiences by transforming utilitarian spaces into engaging environments. The new trail will guide residents to local businesses and services while promoting neighborhood connectivity.

District 2 City Councilor Joaquín Baca remarked on the significance of cultural investment: "Community investment improves neighborhoods. We often speak in terms of economic investments, but the cultural investment made here with the artwork from these students is just as important for our future."