Redevelopment Tax Abatement (RTA)

Program Overview

The Redevelopment Tax Abatement (RTA) Program is available for any project type in any designated Metropolitan Redevelopment Area (MR Area). The program temporarily freezes property taxes at pre‑development values, which reduces early project costs and helps new developments stabilize.

The RTA program benefits the City, County, and private developers. It has no operational costs and generates a net positive impact on tax revenues over time. By incentivizing development on long‑vacant or underused properties, the program supports infill development and strengthens the local tax base.

The program also helps attract private investment and revitalize areas that have experienced disinvestment. It supports high‑quality, sustainable development projects that provide clear community benefits. All projects must align with the goals of the applicable Metropolitan Redevelopment Plan and must help eliminate or prevent slum and blight, as defined in NM Statute Section 3 Article 60A.

Up to 14-Year Pause on Property Tax Increases

Recent legislation (Senate Bill 58) extends the maximum length of the property tax freeze. The MRA may now offer 7‑, 10‑, or 14‑year abatements, depending on project size, community benefit, and alignment with RTA program goals.

After the abatement period ends, the property is reassessed and taxed at its full taxable value.

Learn More About the Program

• RTA Program FAQs explain common questions.
• Extended RTA Program Criteria describe the goals and priorities used to evaluate projects. (Coming soon)

How to Apply 

MRA provides several resources to help applicants understand the program and prepare a complete application.

Step 1: Review the Program Materials

• Download the RTA Program Handbook (PDF)
• Download the RTA Application Instructions (PDF)

These documents explain program requirements, eligibility, and the full application process.

Step 2: Schedule a Pre‑Application Meeting

Before submitting an application, applicants must schedule a Pre‑Application Meeting with MRA staff. 

This meeting:

• Confirms basic eligibility
• Reviews project details
• Ensures applicants understand all requirements and materials

Step 3: Submit Your Application

After the Pre‑Application Meeting, applicants may submit a complete RTA application and all required appendices.

Application Review Timeline

Approval typically takes 3–5 months.

1. The Albuquerque Development Commission (ADC) reviews the proposal and issues a recommendation.
2. The City Council considers the recommendation and votes on final approval.

Application Materials

Program Resources:

• RTA Program Handbook (PDF)
• RTA Application Instructions (PDF)

Application Appendices:

• Appendix A: RTA Application Cover Sheet (PDF)
• Appendix B: Building Permit Valuations (PDF)
• Appendix C: Community Benefit Matrix (Excel)
• Appendix D: Applicant Experience Matrix (PDF)
• Appendix E: Applicant Certification-Women-Minority Business (PDF)
• Appendix F: Modified W-9-Local Business Certification (PDF)
• Appendix G: Financial Analysis Spreadsheet (Excel)
• Appendix H: Program Acknowledgement of Risks & Responsibilities (PDF)
• Appendix I: City Color Palettes (PDF)

• Appendix J: Boilerplate RTA Lease Agreement (PDF)

Submitting Your Materials

Please email requests for Pre‑Application Meetings and completed RTA Applications to [email protected], and copy China Osborn, MRA Program Manager, at [email protected].