Mile Hi District Streetscape Enhancement Project

Initial Assessment and Visioning

In the early 2000s, community leaders recognized the need to improve the corridor’s functionality and appearance. Initial surveys and feedback highlighted narrow sidewalks, insufficient greenery, scattered signage, and limited pedestrian amenities. Insufficient lighting was at the top of the survey results.

2011-2014: The Fair Heights Neighborhood Association (officially renamed Mile Hi Neighborhood Association in 2016) and other stakeholders hosted workshops and planning meetings to conceptualize safer, more accessible streetscapes. These sessions laid the groundwork for collaborative designs that prioritized multi-modal accessibility and enhanced aesthetics.

Planning and Collaboration

2014: The area North of Lomas was branded as the “Mile-Hi District,” with efforts focused on installing identity signage and improving lighting.

2017: Four neighborhood associations formalized their collaboration under the San Pedro Coalition, which worked with Albuquerque’s Office of Neighborhood Coordination to address public safety and business engagement along the corridor.

2018-2020: Strategic planning intensified, incorporating asset mapping and community workshops to refine priorities, such as enhancing walkability and creating public gathering spaces.

Implementation Milestones

2021: The San Pedro Corridor was designated a New Mexico MainStreet Urban Neighborhood Commercial Corridor Initiative (UNCCI) project. This designation allowed for focused investment and support in implementing streetscape improvements.

2022: The Revitalize San Pedro Partnership (RSPP) hosted a series of placemaking contests and business engagement events to gather feedback and foster local pride.

2023: Initial phases of the North San Pedro Streetscape Enhancement Project were launched, emphasizing green spaces, expanded pedestrian pathways, and cohesive urban design elements.

Current Focus and Goals

Today, the streetscape project aims to transform the corridor into a vibrant, walkable hub that supports local businesses and reflects the community’s character. Planned improvements include:

• Widening sidewalks and enhancing pedestrian crossings.

• Incorporating greenery, shade structures, and public art.

• Improving signage, lighting, and landscaping to create a cohesive and welcoming environment.

Promote Safety, Access, & Walkability - Prioritize pedestrian and cyclist safety by widening sidewalks, improving crossings, and adding protected bike lanes where feasible. Transform the corridor into a pedestrian-friendly environment with clear pathways, shaded areas, and improved accessibility for all users. Ensure improvements are accessible and beneficial to all, especially historically underserved communities along the corridor.

Foster Economic Growth - Support local businesses by creating a more inviting streetscape that attracts foot traffic and encourages longer visits. Transforming the corridor into a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly destination that attracts visitors, supports small businesses, encourages investment, and fosters community-driven commerce.

Support Environmental Sustainability - Integrate green infrastructure, such as trees and stormwater management systems, to enhance sustainability and resilience.

Strengthen Community Identity - Reflect the corridor’s diverse cultural heritage through public art, cohesive signage, and landscaping that connects to the community’s character. Beautify the corridor with greenery, lighting, and façade enhancements to create a welcoming and visually appealing environment. Foster a sense of belonging by creating spaces that encourage social interactions, events, and public gatherings.

Delivering streetscape improvements takes more than a good design—it takes reliable, well-sequenced funding that can carry the project from planning into construction.

Funding secured: With the support of Councilor Tammy Fiebelkorn, RSPP has secured $1.1 million in state legislative capital outlay to advance the Mile Hi District Streetscape Enhancement Project. Legislators who have contributed include: Senator Mimi Stewart, Representative Cristina Parajon, Senator Natalie Figueroa, and Senator Antionette Sedillo-Lopez.

Additional funding being pursued: The City’s 2026 capital outlay priorities include a $750,000 request for “San Pedro Pedestrian Improvements and Beautification” along San Pedro Dr. NE from Cagua Pl to Lomas Blvd. If awarded, this funding would help complete key safety, access, and public-realm improvements on the ground.

RSPP will continue coordinating with public partners to align funding sources so project delivery isn’t dependent on one-time appropriations that can be insufficient or unpredictable from year to year.