Fresh Coat Property Improvement Grant

The Fresh Coat Property Improvement Grant is administered by the City of Albuquerque’s Metropolitan Redevelopment Agency (MRA) and is designed to support the revitalization of commercial and mixed-use properties within designated Metropolitan Redevelopment (MR) Areas. This program is part of a broader initiative to stimulate economic activity and beautification in corridors that have experienced long-term disinvestment. Targeting exterior enhancements, the grant aims to promote neighborhood pride, boost visual appeal, and attract increased customer foot traffic—particularly in advance of significant milestones like the Route 66 Centennial. The grant provides financial assistance for two primary types of projects: general exterior façade painting and large-scale exterior murals. Eligible projects must be located along Central Avenue or 4th Street within specific MR Areas, which include Barelas, Downtown, Central/Highland/Upper Nob Hill, East Downtown, East Gateway, Historic Central, Near Heights, Sycamore, Soldiers & Sailors Park, University, and West Central. Only commercial or mixed-use properties qualify; single-family residential properties are not eligible. Tenants may apply with written permission from the property owner, and owners with multiple properties may submit more than one application, though no more than two awards will be issued per applicant. Award amounts are based on the size of the building's façade. Small façades (400–3,000 sq. ft.) are eligible for grants of up to $3,000, medium façades (3,000–6,400 sq. ft.) may receive up to $5,000, and large façades (over 6,400 sq. ft.) can qualify for awards up to $10,000. Murals measuring 400 sq. ft. or larger are also eligible, with awards determined based on project estimates and a $10,000 cap. All projects must be newly proposed; previously completed improvements or mural restorations are ineligible. Additionally, funding is limited and awarded through a competitive process. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and not all submissions will be selected for funding. To apply, applicants must complete an online submission, including a City-modified W-9 form, proof of ownership or lease with notarized owner permission, a project budget and timeline, and visual documentation (photos or renderings) of the proposed improvements. Incomplete applications or those submitted by mail, email, or in-person will be rejected. An optional informational webinar will be held on February 13, 2026, to provide guidance on the application process and answer potential applicant questions. Applications are evaluated based on several criteria, including project readiness, demonstrated need, potential for neighborhood uplift, and community benefit. Priority is given to projects tied to businesses with fewer than 10 full-time employees that generate gross receipts tax. Additional points may be awarded for prior performance on City-supported projects and demonstrated quality-of-life impacts. Successful applicants will enter into a Redevelopment Agreement with the MRA, and funds will be disbursed in two installments—60% upon agreement execution and 40% after project completion. Awardees are responsible for obtaining all necessary permits and ensuring compliance with applicable codes and regulations. The program emphasizes community revitalization and aims to leverage artistic and aesthetic enhancements as tools for economic and cultural development. For more information, prospective applicants can contact Mara Salcido, Redevelopment Project Manager, via email at [email protected]. The application period runs from February 3 through April 3, 2026. All projects must align with the program’s goals to foster a more vibrant and inclusive urban landscape in Albuquerque’s MR Areas.

Priority given to proposals from businesses generating gross receipts tax and employing fewer than 10 FTEs; enhance visibility; support overlooked communities.