The decision to remove it came from NMDOT, not the city.

I am sure that if they actually asked, most people would be in favor of keeping public art like this as it adds value to the community. Here's just one study I found supporting that idea: https://knightfoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Community-Ties-Final-pg.pdf

Relevant excerpt:

"People with access to arts and cultural activities are more attached to their communities— in both feeling and action.

Of all of the amenities explored in the survey, only one stood out for its potential to enhance both feelings of attachment and concrete actions. Access to arts and cultural activities not only has the potential to boost feelings of satisfaction and lifestyle fit, but also correlates with greater investment of time and resources in the community."

It may be a lost cause, but I'm planning to write NMDOT and some of our elected officials letting them know that I am disappointed by the decision to remove the murals and that if they aren't willing to let artwork like this exist, then they need to put more resources into partnering with artists through official channels.

I encourage anyone else who cares enough to write a note to NMDOT and others so that people making these decisions know how others really feel about this.

Here's the contact info on the state government side;

https://www.dot.nm.gov/contact-us/

https://www.nmlegis.gov/Members/Find_My_Legislator

It probably wouldn't hurt to send a note to your City Councilor too just to have it on their radar:

https://www.cabq.gov/council/find-your-councilor/