ABQ Times

The City of Albuquerque and the University of New Mexico (UNM) have announced a partnership to explore expanding UNM's presence into downtown Albuquerque. This initiative aims to revitalize the urban core and enhance educational opportunities for the community.

The city has offered land at 3rd and Marquette for this potential expansion, following similar successful models in other cities like Arizona State University's downtown Phoenix campus. A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed by Mayor Tim Keller and UNM President Garnett Stokes to formalize this collaboration.

"By exploring how to expand UNM's footprint into downtown Albuquerque, we're reimagining how a modern urban university can serve its community," said UNM President Garnett Stokes. "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."

Mayor Tim Keller expressed his support: "Arizona State brought new life and development to downtown Phoenix, and we’re ready to help UNM any way we can to do the same thing here 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."

Mark Baker from 505 Central Food Hall added: “Having a strong university presence will really round out Downtown's current mix of office, housing, restaurant, and entertainment uses. Speaking on behalf of everyone in the 505 Central Food Hall, we can't wait to serve the students and faculty some delicious food!"

Under this agreement, UNM will assess academic program needs and infrastructure requirements while engaging with faculty, students, and community stakeholders. The City of Albuquerque will provide technical support and explore financial mechanisms to facilitate this potential expansion.

District 2 City Councilor Joaquín Baca stated: “I look forward to the discussions as we explore developing a UNM campus in Downtown. 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.”

The partnership seeks to promote economic development while aligning with local priorities in education.