Dennis Chavez Federal Building

The Dennis Chavez Federal Building is a 13-story structure located in downtown Albuquerque with steel frame construction and reinforced concrete covered by polished granite exterior walls. Inside, it houses multiple federal agencies including the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Veterans Administration, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

The building was completed in 1965 and renamed in 1976 to honor Dennis Chavez, who served as a United States Senator from 1935 to 1962. The naming recognized his long tenure in Congress and his influence on the state.

The ground floor lobby features New Mexico marble, showing how federal architecture of the 1960s drew on local materials. This design choice connected the building to the regional identity of its place.

The building is easily accessible from Gold Avenue SW in the heart of the business district and provides central orientation within downtown. Public areas are open during business hours, though visitors should expect standard security checks upon entry.

When completed, it was one of the tallest buildings in New Mexico at about 197 feet (60 meters), ranking third after only two other towers. This height made it a defining feature of Albuquerque's skyline during the 1960s.

Location: New Mexico

Inception: 1965

Floors above the ground: 13

GPS coordinates: 35.08350,-106.65300

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:21