300-unit residential, commercial and open space development planned for the Hub City

BELEN—A new, 300-unit apartment complex with commercial and community space is being planned for a 15-acre mixed-use development in Belen.

The Belen City Council approved a Planned Area District last Monday after Modulus Architects & Land Use Planning and Sleeping Indian Ranch, LLC presented their plan. According to the ordinance, which was approved unanimously, a PAD is a mix of residential, retail and services and open space development.

The new development is planned to be built off the frontage road west of Interstate 25, south of Camino del Llano and south of Sunrise Bluffs subdivision. According to the application for a PAD, the developers, who are the family of the late Dr. Roland Sanchez, plan to build six buildings that include 24 units each, and five other buildings with 36 units each.

The plan is to include a community clubhouse and event space that will have a swimming pool and hot tub, bathroom and showers, cabanas and fire pits and barbecue area. The usable open space will include walking paths, seating areas and a landscaped ponding area.

The plan for the commercial space is a total of 13,000 square feet, an outdoor patio and 76 parking spaces.

Angela Piarowski, with Modulus Architects & Land Use Planning, told the council during last week’s meeting that the proposed planned community accommodates 350 residents, open space and more.

“The architectural rendering brings a true sense of place, with a street-facing courtyard,” Piarowski said. “We will have grading and a drainage plan, and it’s a responsible site design. We will ensure all infrastructure needs will be met.”

She said the commercial space will be for retail and dining, providing for residents of the new complex as well as the entire city.

“I have a nice home, but I want to live here,” joked Councilor Rudy Espinoza. “I’m grateful you chose our community. I’m just so proud of you.”

Elia Sanchez, the widow of Dr. Sanchez and with Sleeping Indian Ranch, LLC, said she was thankful to the city for working with them to “make sure we have a cohesive plan that works for all of us in the long term.”

Piarowski said while they don’t have a cost estimate the apartments would run for, she did say they would offer them at “a lower price point than the market rate.”

While no one opposed the planned development, there were some concerns from the residents at Sunrise Bluff, including the condition of the frontage road.

Steven Tomita, the city’s development services director, said the New Mexico Department of Transportation is currently doing traffic studies to determine if there has to be changes to accommodate the road.

He told the council they have had meetings with NMDOT, and there isn’t a plan to widen the road at this point in time.

Sunrise Bluff resident Tammy Pfaff said she too was concerned about the frontage road, and wondered how busy it will be once it’s fully developed.

“I think this is wonderful for the community,” Pfaff said. “We have to make sure we are providing the infrastructure to stay and thrive.”

John Adams, another Sunrise Bluffs’ resident, said his biggest concern is the frontage road currently only has two stop signs, and there are many drivers who don’t stop.

“During the whole development process, what’s going to happen at the entrance?” Adams asked. “Could there be LED stop signs? Could there be a light?

“It’s going to be very difficult to get out onto the frontage road when it’s fully developed with 400-500 new people living in the area.”

Tomita explained the PAD ordinance is the beginning of the process, and the developers will have to come back for approval of a subdivision ordinance, including design and signage.

“I’m very impressed with the presentation,” said Councilor Steve Holdman. “It brings to mind that nothing happens overnight. If you look toward the future, great things can happen I think it’s a great step forward.”

Councilor Frank Ortega thanked Sanchez for “reinvesting in the city of Belen.

“A project like this is going to bring in GRT, more shopping and more business,” Ortega said. “Without that, we can’t plan for equipment for the fire and police departments ... I’m so proud of you Mrs. Sanchez. You’re willing to invest your money into the city of Belen with this wonderful project.”

Belen Mayor Robert Noblin said he too is grateful for this opportunity for the Hub City.

“I personally have not, in my is years on the council and mayor, seen a more complete plan — from ponding, commercial and what would be a benefit,” Noblin said. “The community come out to support something great for our community. A lot of people complain ‘Not in my back yard,’ but I thank you for your patience. It’s important that the Sanchez family (be recognized) for a generous investment in our town. You didn’t have to do it. It’s a new chapter for our town.”