ABQ Times

Today, the Albuquerque City Council approved the expansion of the Downtown Metropolitan Redevelopment (MR) Area, incorporating the Railroad and McClellan Park MR Areas, along with additional parcels north of Lomas Boulevard. This expansion strengthens efforts to revitalize Albuquerque's urban core under the developing Downtown 2050 Plan by the City’s Metropolitan Redevelopment Agency (MRA).

The expansion is based on the success of the Downtown 2025 MR Area, which has driven redevelopment projects and economic growth. The City aims to streamline redevelopment efforts by integrating these areas, fostering economic vitality and creating a cohesive investment strategy.

District 2 Councilor Joaquin Baca stated, "By consolidating these redevelopment areas under a unified Downtown MRA boundary, we are not merely redrawing lines on a map. We are strategically aligning our resources to fulfill the original vision of the McClellan Park and Railroad MRAs – to reinvest crucial tax revenues directly into the heart of our city and to bolster downtown revitalization."

Mayor Tim Keller said, “We’re working toward an Albuquerque that is connected, innovative, and forward-thinking. By coordinating resources and efforts under one plan, we can ensure smarter investment and real progress for the heart of our city.”

MRA Director Terry Brunner added, “The expansion of the Downtown MR Area represents a major step forward in our commitment to creating a thriving, vibrant downtown. By bringing these areas under one redevelopment framework, we can more effectively coordinate resources, attract investment, and support the growth of Albuquerque’s urban center.”

The expanded MR Area will guide future redevelopment efforts and enhance the economic and social vitality of downtown Albuquerque. Further details and reports are available on the Metropolitan Redevelopment Agency’s website at cabq.gov/mra.