Albuquerque begins construction on first neighborhood-scale green stormwater project

Construction is underway on the first neighborhood-scale green stormwater infrastructure (GSI) project in Albuquerque, aiming to reduce flooding while adding green space and traffic-calming features to the Pueblo Alto neighborhood.

The $6.5 million project will address long-standing drainage challenges in the Mile Hi area, where homes built in the 1950s sit within the footprint of a former arroyo. As development expanded in the surrounding area, stormwater infrastructure struggled to keep pace, leading to periodic flooding during large storms.

The project will incorporate a range of GSI features designed to capture, store and filter stormwater runoff before it reaches arroyos or local aquifers. Improvements include new soil systems, landscaping and underground stormwater storage tanks that can quickly collect runoff and drain within 24 to 48 hours.

“Mile Hi neighbors have dealt with flooding for years, and my office has been working with DMD and the community through every phase of this project to find real solutions,” said City Councilor Tammy Fiebelkorn in a press release. “Green Stormwater Infrastructure is exactly the kind of smart, forward-looking investment our neighborhoods deserve. It reduces flooding, protects our aquifer, and makes our streets more livable. I'm glad to see shovels in the ground and look forward to residents seeing the results.”

Jennifer Turner, director of the city’s Municipal Development Department, said the upgrades are needed to address aging infrastructure. “Existing infrastructure can’t handle big storms, and needs a full update,” Turner said. “Green stormwater infrastructure helps alleviate flooding while also making the neighborhood nicer.”

Construction is expected to be completed before the start of the 2026 monsoon season. In addition to reducing flooding, the project is designed to filter runoff, recharge groundwater, reduce standing water and mosquitoes, and improve neighborhood aesthetics with new trees and vegetation.