R-26-65: Approving And Authorizing The Acceptance Of Grant Funds From A New Mexico State Tourism Department Destination Forward Grant And Providing An Appropriation To The Metropolitan Redevelopment Agency In Fiscal Year 2027 (Baca, by request)

Description

Approving And Authorizing The Acceptance Of Grant Funds From A New Mexico State Tourism Department Destination Forward Grant And Providing An Appropriation To The Metropolitan Redevelopment Agency In Fiscal Year 2027 (Baca, by request)

Summary

The resolution authorizes Albuquerque’s Metropolitan Redevelopment Agency (MRA) to accept and appropriate a $121,440 New Mexico Tourism Department Destination Forward grant for Fiscal Year 2027. The funds will support the first installation phase of a downtown wayfinding system, including directional signs, pedestrian maps, banners, lighting and murals. The system will organize downtown into five branded districts and help residents and visitors find parking, lodging, businesses, cultural sites and transportation. The project affects downtown businesses, property owners, residents and visitors, and is intended to improve accessibility, encourage walking and tourism, and support redevelopment. The grant partially funds an estimated $264,000 project; the MRA plans an 8% bond-funded match and must secure remaining funds.