City Moves Forward with Plan to Increase Military Housing
ALBUQUERQUE — Albuquerque needs more housing for all segments of the market, including housing to support military personnel and families at Kirtland Air Force Base. Tonight, the City’s award to the Military Housing Authority to build and manage off-base housing was approved by City Council. This is an important step forward to build the housing needed in our city and to meet Kirtland Air Force Base growth.
Kirtland Air Force Base is one of the largest and most significant military bases in the region, but the base’s limited on-site housing options have created significant housing challenges for service members, particularly for Junior Service Members who have to compete in the broader Albuquerque housing market. Building dedicated off-base housing for military members will help alleviate the strain for service members.
“Albuquerque is committed to addressing the housing needs of all our residents, including those who serve at Kirtland Air Force Base,” said Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller. By advancing this partnership with the Military Housing Authority, we are taking a critical step in ensuring that our military personnel and their families have access to the affordable, high-quality housing they deserve.”
“The collaboration between the City, Department of Defense, and the Military Housing Authority represents a win-win for our service members and the Albuquerque community. It’s a step toward ensuring that our men and women in uniform have a place to call home while also contributing to the local economy. We’re excited to see how this partnership will improve the quality of life for our military families,” said Kirtland Partnership Committee.
The City of Albuquerque will now begin negotiations with the Military Housing Authority to develop and operate off-base housing, so service members have access to affordable, high-quality accommodations
While the final cost is yet to be determined, federal funds will cover the entirety of the project, making it a sustainable solution that meets the housing needs of military personnel without relying on local resources.
The project will foster job creation during development and ongoing economic activity. The impact on Albuquerque’s social and commercial life is expected to be significant as military families join the community, contributing to local businesses and enhancing the city’s cultural vibrancy.