The Town of Bernalillo is a small, historic community located approximately 18 miles north of Albuquerque. Town residents value the community's authenticity and style of life, though the area is experiencing increased real estate market pressure due to its proximity to Albuquerque, Rio Rancho and Santa Fe.
Recognizing this pressure and the opportunities the Rail Runner presents, in September of 2006 the Town of Bernalillo adopted a moratorium on building permits in areas near the community's two rail stations: the downtown Bernalillo station and the Sandoval County U.S. 550 station. At that point, a planning effort - including a 4-day design workshop - was initiated to develop land use and transportation concepts for the areas near both stations.
Community Vision for Transit Oriented Development
A Community Vision for Transit Oriented Development was adopted by the Town of Bernalillo in October of 2007. The plan includes goals and objectives for the areas near the stations, circulation recommendations (including new streets, street improvements, and pedestrian and bicycle facilities), and public space and park recommendations. Land use concepts in the plan include commercial and residential uses, and the plan contains building design recommendations that reflect transit oriented development principles. Additionally, the plan identifies a number of housing types that are consistent with the Towns heritage and architectural style while being consistent with TOD principles.