In 2008 the Downtown Action Team completed the second phase of a Retail Strategy, produced by top retailing consultants Economic Research Associates, and began the implementation phase by hiring a full-time retail recruitment manager & economic development coordinator.

The process was not simple, but DAT was lucky to find Mae Jeanne Rescineto, a retail specialist who served as Marketing Director at Albuquerque’s Coronado Mall for over 10 years. The current economic climate makes for a difficult environment for any retailer, and while Downtown offers some unique advantages, the will always be challenges to overcome.

Building a dynamic downtown retail district takes time and planning, but with the help of numerous like-minded organizations we continue to make progress. In just the first year, several new businesses have opened their doors to expectant customers while others have invested in major renovations or business expansions. In some ways, the national economic downturn has had a positive effect on Downtown Albuquerque’s growth.

A handful of new restaurants have opened their doors including Slices, Waco’s Taco’s, bRgR and Green Bar, Farina Pizzeria, Gold Rush Cupcakes and even more are in the planning and design phase. Other restaurants have expanded operations and built new outdoor patio dining space, such as JC’s New York Pizza Department and Gold St. Cafe. New businesses include interior design and lifestyle stores, new galleries, architecture and film production studios.

Certain advantages come with locating a business Downtown, from the large employee base, our year-round tourist traffic and the growing popularity of the RailRunner and regional transit options. New urban housing developments are also popping up around the city core, building the diverse demographic base that chooses values urban amenities. With Albuquerque grapping top billing as one of the best places to locate a business, to raise a family and for quality of life, building and supporting our local businesses will continue to be a priority for the Downtown Action Team.

DOWNLOAD PHASE I &  II of DAT’s RETAIL DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY.