The IDO encourages Centers and Corridors infill near Albuquerque Rapid Transit and core ABQ Ride routes by allowing higher density, reduced parking minimums, and mixed-use forms within mapped Premium Transit areas along Central Avenue.
ART runs along Central Avenue and is the spine of Albuquerque's Premium Transit network. The IDO designates Premium Transit Areas where mixed-use zoning, height bonuses, and reduced parking minimums apply. Affordable housing inclusion can unlock additional bonuses. The intent, supported by the Climate Action Plan, is to concentrate growth near transit and reduce vehicle miles traveled. Critics argue that infill remains uneven; the city periodically revises the IDO to refine bonus formulas and historic-district interactions.
Failure to meet bonus conditions, such as affordable units or design standards, can void the density grant during permit review. Post-occupancy non-compliance may trigger code enforcement.
See how Albuquerque's transit-oriented communities (toc) rules stack up against other locations.
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