Comment by Hunter on October 25, 2012 at 8:57am

While I agree with the Alibi position on Paseo/I-25, it is disappointing to see them perpetuate the falsehood that "County" money is somehow distinct from "City" money.  Historically, 70 to 80 percent of County spending is financed from City residents (property tax).  So the City contribution to this sprawl promoter is closer to $54 million.  Decreasing congestion increases traffic flow which in turn increases road capacity.  That increased capacity wil be used to justify approval of more residential building permits west of the river.  Obviously, none of this increases river crossing capacity.  And yes, I live west of the river.

Comment by shotsie on October 25, 2012 at 5:55pm

I'm voting NO because:  1)  Sandoval County and Rio Rancho are NOT chipping in one thin dime - and their residents are prime users of the bridge.  2)  The city/state is giving $160M to the Winrock Mall re-development that is coming out of this funding source.  It should be a no-brainer - wipe out most of the TIDD and it'll pay for that interchange.  3)  Life will be miserable until the entire interchange is re-built.  4)  They aren't including any plans for mass transit over Paseo.  5)  Like it or not, the military/Sandia  presence is going to wind down, so there's less need in the future.  (sorry!)

I think the city/county should really consider expanding Osuna Rd instead, from I-25 to 2nd St, then increase the entrance/exit ramps at Paseo.  A good chunk of people will take this route instead of I-25 Paseo.  This will increase capacity without disrupting present traffic, and also help develop that part of ABQ - more businesses, more revenue.  Cancel the TIDD, and have it pay for the construction, including improving the bridge. 

Comment by Kenny on October 25, 2012 at 7:01pm

Gotta love your reasons, shotsie. Especially #1! (Too bad I can't vote on this issue due to living in unincorporated Bern Cnty.)

As for expanding Osuna, there is already a huge backup of drivers on northbound 2nd Street waiting to get on westbound Paseo every afternoon at 5 pm. Expanding Osuna would make that problem intolerable.

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