Frank Martinez
Frank H. Martinez, 77, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, friend, and community servant passed away on June 5, 2024.
Born on May 27, 1947 in South Martineztown, Albuquerque, where he would reside for all of his life, Frank was the 14th of 16 children. At Albuquerque High School he excelled as an athlete. He earned a bachelor’s in history and a master’s in public administration from the University of New Mexico. He was a Loeb Fellow in 1980.
Frank’s career followed an unconventional path, from serving as a visiting research scholar in architecture and planning at the University of New Mexico to his roles as executive director of the Albuquerque Metropolitan Arroyo Flood Control Authority, deputy chief administrative officer for the City of Albuquerque, and executive director of the Albuquerque Urban Coalition. His diverse experiences enriched his vast knowledge, which he generously shared with colleagues and partners throughout his career.
A passionate public servant and community advocate, Frank was instrumental in forming the Citizens Information Committee of Martineztown in 1971 while he was a student at UNM. This group was crucial in opposing the City of Albuquerque’s condemnation of Martineztown, one of Albuquerque’s oldest neighborhoods. Frank’s leadership in this movement spurred community engagement that helped preserve and enhance South Martineztown’s character. Frank continued to support CICM and the community of South Martineztown over the last 50-plus years in various official and advocacy positions. During the initial urban renewal and reconstruction of South Martineztown, the long term community master plan was set in motion. Over the years, under Frank’s watchful eye, it has included single family and affordable housing, Longfellow Magnet School, Martineztown Park, adding public art to the neighborhood, and most recently the Camino Real de Tierra Adentro National Historic Trail, which highlights the history of the Camino Real. Frank’s vision and advocacy extended to the surrounding area, by leading the effort to decommission the neighborhood’s super fund designation, securing capital outlay funds from the State of New Mexico and City of Albuquerque as well as private sector investments for such projects as WESST, Innovate ABQ, The Lobo Rainforest, the Broadway Corridor, and the Rail Trail.
Frank’s commitment to his community was unwavering. He worked tirelessly to support the economic health and growth of Albuquerque and New Mexico, championed equity, diversity, and created a legacy of historical preservation in South Martineztown. His impact on the city is profound and enduring, leaving a legacy of positive change and revitalization.
Adapted from Albuquerque Journal obituary