Las Cruces says “Yes in My Backyard” With Growth-Focused Development Code
This project has earned the 2026 Excellence in Implementation and Action Award from the New Mexico Chapter of the American Planning Association.
Adopted in 2025, the Realize Las Cruces code marked The City of Las Cruces first comprehensive development code update in nearly 25 years, replacing outdated regulations with a streamlined, flexible framework designed to support sustainable growth and align with contemporary planning practices.
As Las Cruces continues to grow, it faces challenges including rising housing costs, increasing demand for economic opportunity and the need for environmental sustainability. To address these issues, the City partnered with Freese and Nichols’ Urban Planning + Design team to create a code that advances the goals of its comprehensive plan while responding to the evolving needs of the community.
Innovative planning for mixed-use development and housing options
The Realize Las Cruces development code prioritizes three key areas: housing, transportation and sustainability.
Zoning features include:
- Character-based zoning for rural, suburban and urban guides how areas grow without strict separation. This allows for context-appropriate mixed-use development.
- Hybrid form-based zoning focuses on how buildings look and fit into their surroundings rather than what they’re used for, allowing for a cohesive urban design.
- Legalizing middle housing such as duplexes, fourplexes and casitas provides diversity and affordability.
- Allowing for small businesses such as cafes, corner stores and personal services reduces car dependence and supports lively, walkable neighborhoods.
The code promotes sidewalks, bike lanes and reduced vehicle parking in urban areas to promote community health and increase safety. It also promotes equity and sustainability by requiring developers to fund park and traffic improvements, and it encourages the reuse of historic buildings to preserve Las Cruces’ character.
“The Realize Las Cruces code is a great example of forward-thinking zoning reform and serves as a model for cities looking to balance growth and sustainability,” Freese and Nichols Project Manager Erica Craycraft said. “Its focus on community input, flexibility and innovative ideas make it a roadmap for modern development codes.”
Aligning policy with community and vision
Alignment with the comprehensive plan was important in developing the updated code. To get the public participation essential for feedback and buy-in, more than 30 meetings and public commenting sessions were held with city staff and officials, local developers and frequent code users. This process allowed the code to reflect diverse community input and authenticity. The code’s adaptable framework also makes adjustments easier as growth and development occur.
Despite pushback from some residents, the City Council demonstrated unwavering commitment to their vision of a vibrant, sustainable community by adopting the Realize Las Cruces development code. Public meetings revealed strong resident support for the proposed code and its initiatives. Embracing a “Yes in My Back Yard” (YIMBY) philosophy, the Council and plan supporters prioritized the principles of the Elevate Las Cruces comprehensive plan, aiming to foster housing variety, affordability, and walkable neighborhoods.
Planning progress in every corner
