Southwest Mesa

The Southwest Mesa includes all of the area south of I-40 and west of the Rio Grande. The area is characterized by both urban densities and rural lifestyles. Most of the older urban development is located in the northeastern part of the area near Central Avenue, while newer development is occurring at the edge of the city. Important trade routes have historically crossed the flood plains, mesa, and mesa slopes, which form the baseline geography of the region. The maps and data below provide an overview of some of the key information and metrics for the Southwest Mesa CPA.

The City of Albuquerque’s Community Planning Area (CPA) assessment process will work with residents and businesses throughout the city to describe what is working or not working in different parts of town and talk about how to enhance what is going right. We hope that community members will take ownership of the process and use the data on this page to guide conversations about future development, revitalization, and growth.

Albuquerque is home to a diverse and growing population, and every CPA has its own distinct mix of people. Let's get to know Southwest Mesa residents a little better.

Albuquerque has a diverse history and culture, reflected in the public facilities; parks, open space, and trails; transportation network; and heritage sites and resources.

Connections between the places that residents live, work, play, and learn is key to enhancing quality of life. 

How our communities grow and change has long term environmental, quality of life, and public health impacts. Growth patterns also affect our long-term ability to adapt to changing environmental conditions, as well as the resilience and sustainability of our community.

Each CPA has unique assets, development patterns, businesses, and industries that contribute to the character of its neighborhoods, provide employment, and offer goods and services to residents and visitors. 

There are a number of different ways that the City can help support economic development. See this  Economic Development Incentives map  for more information about some of these resources.

The first Southwest Mesa CPA Assessment Report will be complete Fall of 2023.

Check in with the team that will be leading the assessment by emailing  SWmesa-CPA@cabq.gov .

The City of Albuquerque has 12 Community Planning Areas (CPAs). Between 2021 and 2027, City staff and local communities are working together to gather data, inventory assets, and create an action plan for each CPA. The assessment process will help figure out what each community needs and how to get there. Visit the  CPA website  for more information.