An Albuquerque developer has plans to turn an empty plot of land off the freeway, into unique businesses using shipping containers.
Drivers may have noticed an empty dirt lot near I-40 and Carlisle. That lot will soon look much different, and Monday, KRQE News 13 got a sneak peek.
There are big plans for the small landscape near the Hotel Cascada and Hampton Inn. “I think it’s gonna be amazing,” said Roy Solomon, Developer behind the ‘Green Jeans Farmery.‘
Solomon has a vision, and plans to add more than 31 re-purposed shipping containers to the lot to create a cutting edge community.
“This lot is very strange in the configuration, and what we were able to do is figure out a way to make this property work,” Solomon explained. “It’s fun that you can put them together and create different shapes.”
With quick freeway access, and a bike path nearby, his Green Jean Farmery will feature converted shipping containers. They’ll include a new Santa Fe Brewing hangout as the anchor retailer.
“They’re going to have a rooftop deck, and outside seating down below,” Solomon explained.
Also on board with the project are Bocadillos Slow Roasted Sandwich Shop, Epiphany Espresso, plus there will be street tacos, burgers, and an Amores Neapolitan Pizzeria.
“We’re actually going to be right over here on the corner,” said Gabriel Amador, Owner of Amore Neapolitan Pizzeria in Nob Hill. Amador pointed out the portion of the lot near Cutler.
The design centers around a community courtyard. Amador told KRQE News 13 he knew he wanted to hop on board when Solomon approached him with the idea a few months ago.
“I think it’s great, I mean it’s nice to be a part of something that’s really new and progressive,” said Amador.
The project also includes other innovative ideas. Solomon is working on an indoor, hydroponic farm. Containers will be used to grow fruits, vegetables, and herbs.
“They’re growing really really well,” said Solomon, pointing to the growing plants.
He explained that they’re currently in the testing phase, figuring out how to best grow things like tomatoes, spinach, and peppermint.
“We’re hoping to create somewhat of a year-round little growers market along with everything else that’s going on,” said Solomon.
The lot is an acre-and-a-half, and Solomon hopes to fit about 10 businesses, and 80 parking spaces.
The idea is to use an empty space to bring a community together in a creative way. “It’s going to be an exciting time,” said Solomon.
Solomon said the storage community is about half-leased, so there’s still room for interested local businesses to join in.
He hopes to use the hydroponic farm to sell produce to the local restaurants, and later introduce them to local schools as an educational tool.
Solomon hopes to have the space open by summer.
People use shipping containers for all kinds of things all over the world, such as shopping centers, stores and homes.
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