Peter Lorenz Chair-Elect Unirac, Inc. | Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce
Construction has commenced on the Central Avenue overpass in Albuquerque, marking a significant phase in the city's Rail Trail project. The work began on June 16 and includes the development of a pedestrian and bike ramp as part of a 7-mile trail designed to link key areas such as Downtown, Old Town, the Sawmill District, the Rail Yards, and the bosque.
Doug Majewski, CEO of Hartman + Majewski Design Group and chair of the Chamber's Downtown Bold Issues Group, expressed optimism about the project's impact: "The Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce is delighted to see construction starting on the Rail Trail project in Downtown Albuquerque. As a critical connector, most people cannot visualize the positive impact that the Rail Trail will have to the continuing transformation of our Downtown. We have seen how this type of project has positively impacted downtown communities across our county. We look forward to its completion."
The city expects construction to last for ten months. In conjunction with this development, several road closures are anticipated. Drivers will be unable to head south onto First Street from either direction on Central Avenue. Additionally, pedestrians will find access restricted at the southeast corner of Central and First. However, access remains open to both the Albuquerque Rapid Transit platform located on First between Central and Gold Avenue and the Alvarado Transportation Center via First and Gold.
Terri Cole, President and CEO of GACC, emphasized that this initiative aligns with their mission: “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.”
Cole further highlighted ongoing support for this urban trail: “For years the Chamber has been a vocal supporter of the proposed 7-mile, heart-shaped urban trail that will allow residents and visitors to walk or bike from the historic Rail Yards to Downtown proper, to Old Town and the Sawmill District, to our museums and BioPark and the beautiful Rio Grande bosque. It is great to see the project phases continue to break ground and the trail become a reality.”
