Construction on the Rail Trail, a seven-mile multi-use path connecting Downtown Albuquerque and Old Town, is progressing. The city of Albuquerque is focusing on two projects: one in the Sawmill District and another at Central Avenue and First Street. The city aims to develop a recreational network that could also attract tourists.
Terry Brunner, director of the Metropolitan Redevelopment Agency, emphasized the urgency of completing the trail. An overpass bridge is under construction at Central and First Street, while a section near Bellamah Avenue and 19th Street in Old Town has been completed. "So this is about a quarter-mile section that connects the Sawmill Market area with Old Town. It’s our first actual trail piece, and it will soon connect to Wells Park on one end and over to the Bosque Trail on the other end," Brunner said.
Terri Cole, president and CEO of the Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce (GACC), highlighted that the Rail Trail aligns with their mission to foster a thriving business environment. She noted that for years, the Chamber has supported this urban trail project, which will enable residents and visitors to traverse from historic Rail Yards through various city landmarks.
The Chamber has also backed initiatives like forming a Business Improvement District (BID) and a Tax Increment Financing (TIF) District to boost Downtown's economy and complement the Rail Trail.
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