County invites community to forum on East Downtown Los Alamos MRA

Published on December 05, 2024

Los Alamos County invites interested individuals to attend a community forum Monday, Dec. 16, from 6–7:30 p.m. in the County Council Chambers (1000 Central Ave., Los Alamos). This interactive forum will present an overview of the East Downtown Los Alamos Metropolitan Redevelopment Area (MRA) Plan and summarize the community engagement efforts that have informed its development. Attendees will also learn about specific tools enabled by the plan that can support MRA project implementation. A Zoom option will be available for those unable to join in person, and a recording of the forum will be available for later viewing.

Following the meeting, the County will provide the option to share feedback on the “Have Your Say” webpage from December 16–31. This extended feedback period ensures residents have an opportunity to submit their thoughts and contribute to shaping the Plan. Once live, people can provide feedback online at https://lacnm.com/EDLAMRAFeedback.

The East Downtown Los Alamos MRA Plan is a strategic framework designed to revitalize the designated area. It was first initiated by Los Alamos MainStreet, who utilized one of its complimentary service requests as a New Mexico MainStreet accredited program to engage with a revitalization specialist to help with the process.

By addressing barriers to development, the Plan aligns with the vision of the Downtown Los Alamos Master Plan and complies with the New Mexico Metropolitan Redevelopment Code. The Plan focuses on improving neglected areas through public-private partnerships, enhancing infrastructure, supporting new and existing businesses, and creating a vibrant, accessible community hub. Implementation tools include incentives and other types of support for projects that achieve the goals set forth in the Plan.

“Community input has been integral to shaping the Plan, and this forum is an opportunity to share progress and hear from residents and businesses,” said Dr. Shanna Sasser, Economic Development Administrator. “Together, we can ensure it reflects our shared vision for the future of the east downtown Los Alamos area.”

Los Alamos County already has one designated MRA; a White Rock MRA Plan was approved in 2022. An MRA application and review process will be defined in 2025 to start accepting possible projects that meet County goals within the White Rock MRA.

For more information about the forum, how to attend online, and the East Downtown Los Alamos MRA Plan, visit https://lacnm.com/CommunityForumMRA.