City Launches Fresh Coat Grant to Brighten Central Avenue Properties
Improvements support Route 66 corridor ahead of centennial
ALBUQUERQUE – Fresh paint, new murals, and more welcoming storefronts are coming to Central as the City launches Fresh Coat: Property Improvement Grant, a new program designed to strengthen neighborhood pride and support small businesses along the Route 66 corridor.
Administered by the Metropolitan Redevelopment Agency (MRA), Fresh Coat helps improve commercial properties within designated Metropolitan Redevelopment Areas along Central by funding exterior painting and large-scale murals. The program aims to create more inviting streets, attract customers to local businesses, and celebrate the history and identity of Route 66 as Albuquerque prepares for its Route 66 centennial.
Exterior improvements along Central benefit the broader community by creating more appealing, walkable streets. Refreshed storefronts and visible public art can help businesses stand out, encourage foot traffic and contribute to a stronger sense of place for residents, customers and visitors.
“Central is a vital route through Albuquerque, and investing in it strengthens the communities that depend on it,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “Fresh Coat helps create places people want to walk, gather and support local businesses, while honoring the legacy of Route 66.”
The Fresh Coat grant provides financial assistance for exterior facade painting and murals, with awards ranging from $3,000 to $10,000 per property based on building facade size and project scope. Murals of 400 square feet or larger are eligible for funding, and work may be completed by individuals, contractors, volunteers or nonprofit organizations.
Eligible properties must be within a designated redevelopment area along Central, with priority for small businesses and projects that spur reinvestment.
“Fresh Coat is a practical way to help businesses make visible improvements that benefit the corridor as a whole,” said MRA Director Terry Brunner. “With the Route 66 centennial approaching, these projects are a wonderful way to honor the history and character of this iconic roadway while supporting the neighborhoods along it.”
Eligible Metropolitan Redevelopment Areas include Barelas; Central/Highland/Upper Nob Hill; Downtown; East Downtown; East Gateway; Historic Central; Near Heights; Soldiers & Sailors Park; Sycamore; University; and West Central.
Applications open Feb. 3, 2026, and close April 3, 2026. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and must be submitted online.
Applicants can confirm eligibility by searching their address using the City’s Metropolitan Redevelopment Areas map at Metropolitan Redevelopment Areas — City of Albuquerque.
For questions regarding eligible improvements, applicants may contact Project Manager Mara Salcido at [email protected].
To apply, visit the Fresh Coat Property Improvement Grant webpage.