UNM Police Department Headquarters

The University of New Mexico, in partnership with the City of Albuquerque, is implementing a confirmed initiative to remove on-street parking along the south side of Mesa Vista Road and the east side of Buena Vista Drive. This change is necessary to improve emergency vehicle access and ensure faster response times in critical situations.

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Currently, narrow street conditions caused by parked vehicles pose a barrier for emergency crews responding to calls in the area. The parking removal aligns with public safety best practices and supports both UNM’s and the City’s commitment to protecting the health and safety of residents, students, and visitors.

While we understand this change impacts daily parking habits, particularly for nearby residents, UNM is working closely with campus partners to identify alternative parking options and support a smooth transition. The change is scheduled to move forward following the City’s Design Review and Construction (DRC) process.

Mesa Vista / Buena Vista Roadway Changes
Coming December 19, 2025

Project Location

The south side of Mesa Vista Road and the east side of Buena Vista Drive

Click here for a map of the affected area.

Parked vehicles on these corridors create barriers for emergency vehicles, delaying response times during emergencies. Removing parking aligns with public safety best practices and supports UNM's and the City's commitment to protecting the health and safety of residents, students and visitors.

By ensuring emergency vehicles have reliable access, the project enhances public safety and supports faster emergency response times, which can be critical in life-threatening situations.

The primary affected group is Greek Life leadership and residents. Other impacted stakeholders include UNM community members (faculty, staff and students), Spruce Park neighborhood residents and association members.

UNM is actively working with campus partners to identify alternative parking options and ensure a smooth transition for those affected by the change. UNM is committed to helping affected individuals navigate this transition with as little disruption as possible and will provide resources and guidance regarding alternative parking and related concerns.

PATS Parking Solutions

Working with Student Activities Center, Greek Life and our campus partners, Parking & Transportation Services (PATS) offered alternative parking solutions for our campus residents, staff and faculty. Since the beginning of Academic Year 2025-2026 (AY25-26) PATS has offered the following for our Greek Life residents:

  • Transitioned Faculty & Staff "GR" permit holders to "T" or "J" zones
  • Expanded "F" zones to dual use lots to incorporate "GR" permit holders
  • Dirt lot Northwest of Yale Parking Structure transitioned to "GR/R/E" parking zone
  • Mesa Vista Road (West of University Boulevard), offers additional street parking for "GR" permit holders
  • City of Albuquerque (CABQ) permit holders may need to purchase an available PATS permit. Residents are encouraged to visit the PATS Business office, 2401 Redondo Drive, Monday through Friday 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Visit the Interactive Campus Map for parking areas.

For more information regarding parking support, please contact UNM Parking & Transportation Services at (505) 277-1938 or parktran@unm.edu