Mile Hi District Streetscape Enhancement Project
The Evolution of the San Pedro Streetscape
RSPP knows that vibrant streetscapes are an indicator of thriving communities. Streetscapes are public infrastructure investments—much more than just sidewalks and curbs—they are the spaces where people connect, businesses flourish, and neighborhoods thrive. RSPP is committed to creating a safer, more accessible, and welcoming environment for all who live, work, and visit the San Pedro MainStreet Corridor. That’s why we have dedicated significant effort to enhancing the streetscape across the entirety of the corridor, ensuring it reflects our shared vision for a vibrant and inclusive community. The first phase of this project looks at a streetscape treatment in the Mile Hi DIstrict – the area between Lomas Blvd. NE and Cagua Pl NE.
Project Goals
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.
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.
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.
Support Environmental Sustainability - Integrate green infrastructure, such as trees and stormwater management systems, to enhance sustainability and resilience.
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Project History
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.