Posted By: ABQ RAW Staff
Posted On: 12/01/2023 @5:30 PM
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Today, City Councilor Dan Lewis from District 5 teamed up with State Legislators, including Senator Harold Pope and Representatives Cynthia Borrego, Joy Garratt, Charlotte Little, and Dayan Hochman-Vigil, along with County Commissioner Walt Benson, and City Councilors Renee Grout and Louie Sanchez. Together, they provided an update and outlined the next steps for enhancing Paseo del Norte and Unser Blvd. on the westside of Albuquerque.
Councilor Dan Lewis emphasized the collaborative effort involved in advancing these projects, attributing their progress to the hard work and determination of many elected officials present. He stated, “We have all worked diligently for years to secure the funding for these roadway improvements.”
The first phase, referred to as the “L Phase” due to its shape, will focus on constructing Paseo del Norte from Calle del Nortena to Unser Blvd and Unser from Paseo del Norte to Paradise. With a budget of $45 million, the design is nearing completion, and the City is actively acquiring the necessary right of way. Once right of way acquisition is finished, construction is expected to proceed, with the City planning to advertise the project for construction in the fall of 2024 and construction activity commencing in early 2025. This phase aims to establish a four-lane connection for Paseo del Norte from I-25 to Unser and a four-lane connection for Unser from Paseo del Norte to just past Norther Blvd. in Rio Rancho. These enhancements will improve traffic flow for westside commuters, reduce traffic diversion from minor roads, and include new multi-use trails along both sides of Paseo del Norte, creating safe bicycle and pedestrian routes in this corridor.
Phase 2 will focus on constructing Paseo del Norte from Unser to Rainbow, comprising two subphases: one from Unser to Universe and the second from Universe to Rainbow. Each subphase costs $19 million, and Northwest Legislators have already secured $4 million from the 2023 State Capital Outlay. The remaining $34 million is currently being pursued through additional State Capital Outlay, funding from State House Bill 2, City General Obligation Bonds, and Bernalillo County funds.
Councilor Dan Lewis expressed optimism about the substantial benefits these improvements will bring to the community. He highlighted relief from traffic congestion for neighborhoods near the roadways, improved response times for emergency vehicles, and his commitment to working with area representatives to maintain momentum and secure funding for future phases.
