Downtown Properties Receive Grants to Enhance Security
ALBUQUERQUE – Another round of funding will continue to improve safety and security in the Downtown Area. 24 Downtown Albuquerque property owners are receiving a total of $461,167.80 in Community Connect Downtown Security Camera grants to install more than 60 security cameras connected to APD’s Real Time Crime Center (RTCC).
The program will significantly help owners improve safety in the Downtown area as they continue to foster a thriving business and tourism destination. Below are the recipients of the security grant program:
- Café Lush
- Canvas Artistry
- Don Sushi
- Echoes Albuquerque
- Ex Novo Brewing Company
- Flyby Provisions
- Fusion Theatre Company
- Imperial Apartments
- Java Joe’s
- Lindy's Diner
- Novel Point Coffee
- Silver Street Market
- Flamenco Works, Inc.
- Parking Lot at 113 6th St NW (6th & Mountain)
- Parking Lot at 200 Central SW (2nd & Central)
- Parking Lot at 201 Gold Ave SW (2nd & Gold)
- Parking Lot at 219 Gold Ave SW (3rd & Gold)
- Parking Lot at 601 Central Ave NW (6th & Central)
- Parking Lot at 710 Kent Ave NW (8th & Kent)
- PREP Gertrude Zachary Trust
- Safe House Distilling Co.
- Sidetrack Brewing Company
- The Lofts at 610 Central
- Zendo
"As a local business operating out of Downtown, safety is everything for our customers and staff,” said Chris Leurig, owner of Safe House Distilling Co. “This grant enables us to enhance our security and ensure that Safe House Distilling remains a secure and welcoming space for craft, innovation, and connection in Downtown Albuquerque."
"As grantees of the Community Connect program, FUSION is thrilled to be able to welcome the latest technology camera systems onto our property,” said Dennis Gromelski, owner of FUSION. “As a non-profit arts organization, there is NO WAY we would have been able to afford this system without the grant. This importantly adds to the well-being of our employees and patrons, and addresses the issue of safety that is often stated as a reason why attendees are hesitant to patronize Downtown businesses. Our property also fronts both 1st Street and the pending Rail Trail, and both of these locations will be monitored by our camera system. This grant program is an example of ground level forward thinking, and we are happy to be included in the process."
“We’re seeing major breakthroughs in Downtown, and we're building on that progress by empowering property owners to take ownership of safety and security as they continue to support our community,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “Connecting more properties to the Real Time Crime Center ensures that businesses can focus on thriving while we work to make Downtown Albuquerque a welcoming and secure place for everyone.”
The Community Connect program was launched in August 2024 through the City of Albuquerque’s Metropolitan Redevelopment Agency (MRA), in partnership with the Albuquerque Police Department (APD) to support property owners in purchasing and installing security cameras on commercial buildings within the Downtown Metropolitan Redevelopment Area. These cameras are strategically placed to enhance security, deter crime, and improve police response times, fostering a safer and more welcoming environment for residents and visitors alike.
The RTTC, which plays an essential role in enhancing public safety across Albuquerque, will use the additional cameras to strengthen its ability to monitor incidents and provide crucial support for investigations.
“This is a critical milestone in our mission to revitalize Downtown Albuquerque, said MRA Director Terry Brunner. “Together with APD, we’re not only deterring crime but also fostering economic activity and a sense of safety that benefits everyone.”