ABQ Times

The city of Albuquerque has closed the Bow and Arrow Lodge on Central Avenue after an inspection revealed numerous violations posing risks to tenant safety and the surrounding area. The motel, plagued by crime, saw over 100 service calls from Albuquerque Police Department (APD) and Albuquerque Fire Rescue (AFR) in 2024. During a recent inspection, APD cleared four felony warrants and made one arrest.

"Businesses that willingly engage in criminal activity will not be tolerated in this city," stated Mayor Tim Keller. "Let me be clear: If you endanger our community, we will take decisive action to hold you accountable."

Previously part of the Abandoned and Dilapidated Abatement Property Team (ADAPT) program from June 2022 to September 2023, the lodge had initially seen a reduction in crime but later regressed into disrepair and illicit activities.

Since January 2024, incidents at the Bow and Arrow Lodge included two aggravated assaults and batteries, two armed robberies, four recovered stolen vehicles, two shootings, and 29 ShotSpotter calls for service totaling 52 rounds fired.

Inspection revealed several violations: exposed wiring, electrical hazards, inadequate heating, missing electrical covers; fire hazards such as missing smoke alarms and blocked exits; hazardous plumbing issues; dangerous disrepair like a leaking roof; water damage; evidence of roach infestation; drug paraphernalia scattered throughout the premises.

Residents of the motel were paying between $80 to $120 per night for unsafe conditions. Many units lacked basic necessities.

"Public safety is our top priority. This is another example of a good property that was allowed to decline instead of being properly maintained," said Planning Department Director Alan Varela. "We will continue to take action against problematic properties to keep our neighborhoods safe."

Albuquerque Community Safety assisted tenants with relocation to safer living arrangements and continues to help them secure long-term housing. Animal Welfare took pets found at the motel into protective custody. The pets were reported healthy.