Workers are currently building an addition at Sierra Vista Elementary School in Albuquerque as the city prepares for a significant vote on November 4. On that date, Albuquerque residents will decide whether to approve a general obligation (GO) bond aimed at funding construction and upgrades throughout Albuquerque Public Schools (APS).
Dr. Gabriella Durán Blakey, superintendent of APS, and Dr. Antonio Gonzales, deputy superintendent, have provided details about the bond to the Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. If passed, the GO Bond would raise $350 million for various projects across the district.
The proposed funding would be used to convert 20 schools from evaporative coolers to refrigerated air systems and support construction projects at 13 schools. The bond would also finance a new career technical education training facility, a classroom block at Taylor Middle School, and a special needs education facility on the West Side.
School security remains a focus in the proposed bond package. All new construction at APS will include advanced technologies as part of a layered approach to safety and security. Planned measures include main entry security vestibules with audio and video connections to front desks, remote visitor access controls, security card access for major exterior doors, audio enhancement systems for emergency response, commercial-grade locks on classroom doors, security cameras, intrusion and fire alarms, and crisis evacuation maps placed throughout facilities. These systems are monitored around the clock by a command center capable of streaming emergency footage directly to law enforcement agencies.
In recent years, APS has already spent more than $60 million on safety measures such as cameras, alarms, door locks, and fencing. That investment is expected to increase if voters approve the bond.
According to officials, approval of the $350 million bond would not result in higher taxes for residents. Early voting for the election begins October 7, with expanded early voting starting October 18.
The Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce has encouraged its members and the wider community to support the GO Bond measure. "The Chamber urges its members and the community to vote for approval of the GO Bond, as it will keep moving APS forward with providing a secure and competitive environment for learning."
