CRP students map 80-year vision for Albuquerque's Westside

A team of Community and Regional Planning Capstone graduate students at the UNM School of Architecture+Planning has launched a new initiative to envision an intentional future for Albuquerque's Westside over the next eight decades.

Spearheaded by Alexa Barron, Jake Mirabal, and Rebecca Neal, the project, titled Westside Vision for 2100, aims to engage the community in creating a road map for growth, transportation, economic development, water management, and community life on the west side of the Rio Grande through the year 2100.

The Westside of Albuquerque is expected to absorb the majority of Bernalillo County's growth over the next 80 years, and this project will work to identify what that growth will look like and how it will come to fruition. Looking specifically at the region north of Central and I-40 to the Sandoval County line, and from Coors Blvd to the Rio Puerco, the project team will develop projections, a community process, and a vision for growth that reflects what the Westside wants to see for itself.

Under the guidance of studio instructors Moises Gonzales and Alex Ochoa, and with funding provided by Senator Moe Maestas, the team has mapped out a series of community events to solicit ideas and feedback from residents of the Westside.

Upcoming community events

• Community Meeting, April 6, 4 - 6 PM, Tractor Brewing Westside, 5720 McMahon Blvd NW
• Community Meeting, April 11, 4 - 6 PM, Mariscos, 1517 Coors Blvd NW
• Final Presentation, Date TBA, Week of April 18, Volcano Vista High School, 8100 Rainbow Blvd NW

These events are designed to provide a platform for residents to voice their opinions and actively contribute to the future of their community. If unable to attend in person, residents can participate via an online survey available in both English and Spanish.

Westside Vision for 2100 is a pioneering initiative that underscores the importance of community involvement in long-term planning. As Albuquerque's Westside prepares for substantial growth over the next 80 years, this project aims to create a blueprint that resonates with the community's values and ensures a thriving and sustainable future for the area. Questions can be directed to the project team at [email protected].