Work on Albuquerque's Rail Trail, a long-term vision of the city's Chamber of Commerce, is progressing as construction is underway. Terry Brunner, interim director of Albuquerque’s Metropolitan Redevelopment Agency and chief of staff to Mayor Tim Keller, reports the section between Tiguex Park and Sawmill Market is currently under construction. "If you are visiting the Old Town and Sawmill area you will see the Rail Trail under construction between Tiguex Park and Sawmill Market. That section of trail should be open in the fall," Brunner explains.
Scheduled developments for next month include a new ramp located in Downtown, designed to enhance accessibility by crossing over the railroad tracks at Central and alongside Alvarado station. "In Downtown, the first ramp taking people up and over the railroad tracks at Central and alongside Alvarado station is being constructed in May. Also in May, Rio Metro will be removing one of the railroad tracks to make way for the Rail Trail crossing. We should see a lot of activity in May in that section of trail," Brunner added.
The trail, viewed as a catalyst for downtown revitalization, aligns with the Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce's mission. Said Terri Cole, president, and CEO, “The Rail Trail supports the mission of the Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce, which is to work with government, business, and community partners to promote and develop a welcoming business environment and thriving diverse economy to make our city and state a great place to start and grow a business and a safe and exciting place to work and raise a family.”
Del Esparza, chairman of the board of the Chamber, believes the project will attract development and bring more visitors to Downtown Albuquerque. "We see it as an anchor attraction to Downtown, catalyzing the development of commercial enterprises and unique spaces that will pull more people into the area. This project will put neglected industrial areas to new use, catalyze redevelopment of empty lots and vacant buildings along the route, attract employers Downtown and reinvigorate the job market, all while adding a family-friendly recreational amenity that will help to make Albuquerque a safer and more appealing place."
The Chamber has promoted various initiatives such as the formation of a Business Improvement District and a Tax Increment Financing District, which also seek to boost the area's economy in alignment with the Rail Trail project. The city of Albuquerque sees the Rail Trail as a potential catalyst for economic investment similar to other cities’ urban trails. These trails have led to significant financial input, such as approximately $1 billion in Indianapolis over two decades.
The city outlines additional goals for the Rail Trail project, including enhancing green spaces, expanding economic opportunities, adding infrastructure for pedestrians and cyclists, honoring cultural heritage, increasing public areas for community use, and activating underused lots and buildings.
