Mayor Garcia announces infrastructure, housing and public-safety initiatives

Mayor Michael Garcia used his first-100-days update to outline infrastructure projects, housing and homelessness planning, and new public-safety measures the city will pursue.

On infrastructure, Garcia said the administration has prioritized stalled roadwork and completed plans for temporary public viewing access to the Broken Obelisk. He cited specific projects including repaving Airport Road and installing signal lights at the South Meadows and Agua Fria intersection. He said he has "directed staff to assess deferred maintenance on our city roads" and to develop strategic plans for road repairs and improvements.

On housing and homelessness, Garcia said the city is reviewing existing contracts for homelessness services and is planning a homelessness summit to gather stakeholder and resident input. He described a strategic housing plan that will include workforce and affordable housing options and said the city is "exploring innovative solutions like tiny home communities." Garcia emphasized a regional approach, noting discussions with Santa Fe County and the state of New Mexico and planned biannual joint city–county meetings beginning in June to form action working groups.

On public safety, Garcia said the city is "very close to implementing speed and sound camera traffic enforcement technology." He also announced he "will soon be introducing a new ordinance prohibiting federal agencies like ICE from using our property for ICE enforcement activities," describing the measure as part of the administration's commitment to resident safety and well-being.

Next steps Garcia cited include staff assessments of deferred road maintenance, the homelessness summit to gather stakeholder input, the formation of joint working groups for Midtown redevelopment, and introduction of the proposed ordinance regarding federal agency use of city property.