Carrizozo Metropolitan Redevelopment Area Plan

SITES partnered with the Town of Carrizozo to develop a Downtown Master Plan and Redevelopment Strategy focused on strengthening the local economy, attracting visitors, and supporting rehabilitation along NM 54 and 12th Street. The plan built upon the earlier Historic Carrizozo Revitalization Plan completed through New Mexico MainStreet’s Frontier Communities Initiative in 2015, expanding on those ideas with new strategies for long-term growth.

The process emphasized community collaboration and the town’s growing identity as an arts-focused destination. SITES engaged residents through interactive workshops, small group discussions, and an online project website that shared meeting information and draft materials. This approach ensured participation from residents both in person and remotely.

Community engagement guided every stage of the plan. Initial workshops gathered input on local priorities, and follow-up sessions helped refine goals and identify the most promising projects. SITES ultimately developed fifteen project ideas for downtown revitalization, including streetscape improvements, a district wayfinding system, an outdoor performance space, free downtown Wi-Fi, façade upgrades, a community trail system, affordable housing opportunities, and marketing and economic development strategies.

Together, these ideas form a clear and actionable path for Carrizozo’s continued growth as a creative and welcoming community.