Bernalillo County has secured three grants aimed at enhancing public safety and developing sustainable, community-centered green spaces.
The Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) was awarded a $162,695 Edward Byrne Justice Assistance Grant from the New Mexico Department of Public Safety. This funding will support law enforcement efforts to combat illicit drugs and violent crime. The BCSO plans to use the grant to implement programs that improve public safety and strengthen community well-being through specialized training and the acquisition of advanced technology.
In addition to public safety initiatives, Bernalillo County is investing in healthier neighborhood environments. The county’s Technical Services Department obtained two grants to support urban forestry and green stormwater infrastructure projects. These include a $45,164 Community Forestry Assistance Grant from the New Mexico Energy, Minerals, and Natural Resources Department and a $20,000 Middle Rio Grande Valley Urban Waters Small Grant from the Ciudad Soil and Water Conservation District.
These grants will fund community engagement and early-stage planning for a pilot project in Albuquerque’s South Valley. The project aims to install street trees and green stormwater infrastructure features along four residential roads. This initiative will mitigate nuisance flooding and use stormwater as a resource to support trees and native plants along roadways, creating greener, more connected neighborhoods.