Proposed Alameda Open Space Solar Covered Parking
In cooperation with the City of Albuquerque and Bernalillo County, the Albuquerque Bernalillo County Water Utility Authority is proposing to install solar coverings over the existing parking spaces at the Alameda Open Space. The purposes of the project are to:
- Improve parking at Alameda Open Space
- Save energy
- Preserve our natural resources
- Provide educational opportunities
As of its September 15, 2022, meeting, the City of Albuquerque Environmental Planning Commission voted to approve the site plan for this project. To read the officiation notification of decision, please click here.
About
Collaborative project of City of Albuquerque, Bernalillo County and the Water Authority to:
- Improve parking at Alameda Open Space
- Save energy
- Preserve our natural resources
- Provide educational opportunities
Benefits
- Provides shade for cars and people on hot summer days
- Provides cover from rain and snow
- Saves energy long-term
- Lowers Cost for the Water Authority
- Offsets about 36% of raw water pump station
- Preserves natural resources
- Provides two (2) electric vehicle charging stations
Educational Opportunities
The project includes a SmartFlower Solar Flower that tracks the sun’s movements north-south and east-west. Students and adults will learn about how solar energy is produced through various techniques and how the SmartLower is able to follow the sun. It knows when to retract and when to deploy automatically in cases of high wind, hail, or heavy rain.
Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
Two (2) electric vehicle charging stations, with two outlets each, will be able to charge four (4) electric vehicles at any given time. Charging stations will be free to anyone interested and will be located in designated spaces for electric vehicles.
Resources
Conceptual Drawing of Project
Click on image to open larger version.
Public Meeting PowerPoint Presentation
February 1, 2022
Site Plan
Site Improvements
Construction Impacts/Updates
Construction of the project is pending an approved site permit from the City of Albuquerque Environmental Planning Commission. The Water Authority has selected Affordable Solar as the contractor for the project. Once EPC approval is received, the Water Authority will work with Affordable Solar to finalize plans for the project and will seek input from the community on the final design.
Affordable Solar will purchase and install solar generation equipment and build the solar-covered parking canopies. Upon completion of the project, the Water Authority will purchase energy from the facility.
Impacts
Construction is tentatively scheduled to take place in the fall/winter to minimize inconvenience to those who utilize the Alameda Open Space and will last for four to six (4-6) months. During construction all walking, cycling and equestrian trails will remain open. However, the parking lot will be closed. Parking will be available off of Rio Grande Blvd. NW south of Paseo Del Norte Blvd. NE in the Open Space Shining River Parking Area.
Prior to and during construction, regular email updates will be sent out. Please sign up for construction updates so that we can keep you informed.
We want to hear from you! If you have questions, comments or would like more information about the project, please fill out the form below.
Or you can contact:
Patti Watson
CWA Strategic Communications
505-245-3134 office
505-269-9691 cell
pattiw@cwastrategic.com
