Santa Fe County Commissioners have approved the creation of the Esencia Public Improvement District (PID) during their regular board meeting on February 10, 2026. The district is located in District 5, southwest of the intersection of Avenida del Sur and A Van Nu Po, and covers about 240 acres. Plans for the area include building 482 single-family residential lots in three phases.
The Esencia PID will be developed in Sustainable Growth Area 1, which is southwest of Santa Fe. This location was previously identified by the county as a primary growth area in its Sustainable Growth Management Plan. By focusing development here, the county aims to use existing and planned infrastructure efficiently while keeping new homes close to city amenities.
Under this agreement, developers can be reimbursed for public utilities and infrastructure they construct—such as streets, water and sewer lines, fire hydrants, lights, and sidewalks—through assessments added to residents’ tax bills. These assessments will only apply to property owners within the subdivision. There are exemptions for 100% disabled veterans and for residents living in affordable housing units.
Commissioners added a requirement before approving the agenda item that allows the Board of County Commissioners to maintain authority over the PID. This measure gives them power to require review and corrective actions if necessary.
Projected sales prices for homes in the new community include 74 affordable properties. Pricing will be based on maximum allowed target pricing for three- and four-bedroom homes for incomes between 65% and 120% of the Area Median Income as defined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
The community plans call for a seven-acre park, smaller pocket parks, open spaces, solar streetlights, passive irrigation systems, and other features intended to serve residents.
Construction on infrastructure has already started. The first phase includes permits ready for building 180 homes.
Residents can find more information about this project at https://EsenciaDeSantaFe.com/NewHomes/.
Santa Fe County operates under a Board of County Commissioners responsible for policy-making decisions and a County Manager overseeing administrative functions (official website). The county supports operations with administrative facilities throughout its jurisdiction (official website) and offers services such as public safety, health programs, public works projects, human services, and community development (official website). Santa Fe County’s commitment to transparent governance includes engaging residents through public meetings and advisory boards (official website).
