Rio Rancho Council Approves Lomas Encantadas Zoning

The city governing body voted 5-1 to approve a new apartment and commercial complex development.

Updated on Oct. 24, 2026 in City Hall

Isometric editorial illustration of a three-story residential apartment block and adjacent small commercial structure in a high-desert setting. — The Rio Rancho City Council voted 5-1 to approve zoning for a new 55-unit apartment and commercial complex at Camino Venada. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Should local officials prioritize resident feedback over development proposals in your community?

The Rio Rancho governing body voted 5-1 to grant a necessary zoning designation for a planned development at the corner of Camino Venada and Camino Encantadas. The project includes a 55-unit, three-story apartment building and boutique complex.

Why it matters

This approval allows the development to proceed on land previously purchased from the city for $17,500. It marks the final step in the local rezoning process following an earlier recommendation from the Planning and Zoning Board.

The governing body approved the rezoning by a 5-1 vote after the Planning and Zoning Board cleared the project on October 13, 2026. The site, which currently holds a Commercial 1 zoning designation, was previously sold by the city for $17,500.

The players

Rio Rancho Governing Body

This is the primary legislative authority responsible for making municipal policy and land-use decisions for the city.

Modulus Architects

This architectural firm represented the development team and presented the project plans to the local governing body.

The details

The development plan features a three-story structure containing 55 apartment units alongside more than 1,800 square feet of commercial space. Developers worked to address community concerns through a series of public meetings, phone calls, and email exchanges prior to the final vote.

September 2026: The zoning issue was postponed at the Planning and Zoning Board.
October 13, 2026: The Planning and Zoning Board approved the project rezoning.
October 22, 2026: The governing body voted to grant the zoning designation.

Political Context

The vote highlights the tension in managing land use within the existing Commercial 1 zoning designation framework. Opponents of such high-density developments often cite concerns over traffic and infrastructure, while supporters emphasize the need for new housing and commercial growth.

Residents near the intersection of Camino Venada and Camino Encantadas may see changes to the neighborhood landscape as construction of the 55-unit complex begins. Local shoppers and workers can expect new commercial availability once the 1,800-square-foot boutique space opens.

The takeaway

The project represents a transition of land use from strictly commercial to a mixed-use development model. Local residents can monitor upcoming city planning notices to stay informed about site preparation and construction schedules.