ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Between the walkability and the various activities, the Sawmill District is an attractive part of town for people looking for a place to live. 

“I love living here because it is near Old Town, as you age I think it’s a perfect community to walk around Old Town. My little friend here, this is her stomping ground all the way to Old Town,” said a Sawmill District resident.  

A new project, the Rail Trail, is going to bring a lot more foot traffic to the area.

Nick Fazio with Thriving Communities Program says the new transportation options are providing the city with new ideas.

“The City of Albuquerque is committed to affordable housing and as part of that commitment to affordable housing there is a lot of interest in developing affordable housing projects along the Rail Trail,” said Fazio. 

The city along with the Sawmill Community Land Trust has their eyes on a four-acre lot near the Sawmill Lofts for affordable housing. But before they move forward, they want to hear from nearby residents.

“We know that people that live and work in Albuquerque on the daily, they are the experts on their community. So we really want to leverage that, we want to hear from them and make sure we are getting the input that we need from residents, and nearby community members that are most like to benefit but also be affected by the project,” Fazio said.  

Residents are encouraged to take the survey. It asks people how they feel about affordable housing in the Sawmill District, and what businesses they would like to see in the area.

“We are also asking about transportation options, do people like to bike, walk or take transit? If they drive a car, do they share their car with other family members? And then finally, the survey is also asking about small business opportunities in the Sawmill District,” said Fazio. 

KOB 4 asked residents their thoughts on more affordable housing in the district. Two residents we spoke with didn’t want to go on camera but say they would support it. Another resident says she is open to it. 

“It is just the neatest thing when you can build community, but it would have to be well thought through, I think,” said a Sawmill District resident.  

The survey is open till Feb. 9, but the city is looking to extend the date so more people can participate.