TOP OF MIND

Top of Mind is a weekly question about an issue affecting New Mexicans.

LAST WEEK’S QUESTION

Given the population growth on the West side and traffic density, does Albuquerque need to build another bridge crossing the Rio Grande?

“We absolutely need another bridge or two over the river to help the city move around as we grow. What we need even more is a freeway ring around the city to take pressure off the intersection of the Big-I, especially the truck traffic going north and south.”

— Kathleen Weston

Albuquerque

“Absolutely, a new river crossing needs to be built. U.S. Highway 550 to Rio Rancho is already undersized and in five more years it will be even more of a disaster. We need a crossing between Alameda and 550, but I’m not holding my breath. The environmentalists are the ones in charge.”

— Gary Hays

Bernalillo

“The greatest threat to ecosystems, including our bosque, is loss of habitat. The construction of Paseo had severe effects on wildlife corridors. Any new divisions of the area should be undertaken with input from wildlife experts for facilitating safe crossings, such as fencing designs that channel toward underpasses.”

— James Warner

Rio Rancho

“The question is not need or when or what cost. The question is where? Look at the map. Given what we just went through siting the Gibson Center I can’t think of a single neighborhood that wouldn’t consider this a bridge too close.”

— Alan Schwartz

Albuquerque

“If you’ve ever been stuck in rush-hour traffic on Paseo Del Norte between I-25 and Coors, this question answers itself. Yes. Given all the growth on west side, the sooner the better.”

— Duane Meneely

Albuquerque

“Increased traffic is a consequence of suburban sprawl, and more traffic corridors invite more suburban sprawl. It’s a vicious cycle; more bridges will solve nothing. The solution is twofold: more family-oriented high rises Downtown and exponentially better public transport.”

— Chris Scott

Rio Rancho

“Albuquerque desperately needs another river crossing to the West side. Bumper-to-bumper vehicle traffic on most weeknights heading west on all crossings that continue to get worse is proof positive. I pity the commuters that are faced with that drive on a regular basis. Get it done.”

— Dave Coulie

Albuquerque

“If there is a place to put one in Rio Rancho, that would be better. They only have two options many miles apart. I know that is impossible, so having said that, I think there are enough bridges.”

— Robert Wayne

Albuquerque

“Infrastructure is always 20 years behind. Start now to build two bridges to accommodate population growth and infill within Albuquerque/Rio Rancho.”

— Barbara Gabaldon

Albuquerque