Brady PieperAlbuquerque is proposing a new resolution to voters in the November municipal election, seeking to fund capital improvements and infrastructure projects over 10 years.
The City Council’s resolution, approved as substituted and amended last week, would program funding for the city’s 10-year plan for capital improvements and authorize an additional $180 million in bond sales. While voters will have the final say on the resolution, the proposed Capital Improvement Budget intends to prioritize transparency, fiscal responsibility and funding flexibility while outlining proposed projects in the Two-Year Capital Budget for 2025.
The city’s budget proposal includes a comprehensive two-year budget and long-term planning goals in two-year increments. The 10-year budget features 115 projects across various sectors, including public safety, libraries, streets and senior centers.
These projects would be funded by a combination of federal, state and local funds, along with the issuance of $180 million in general obligation bonds. Much of this bond funding would be utilized to renovate and rehabilitate existing city facilities.
The proposed budget would raise funding for maintenance-related projects throughout the city, seeking to maintain existing streets, parks, public transportation systems and senior centers. Libraries and cultural institutions would also be upgraded to enhance the community’s access to resources and cultural offerings.
In accordance with city ordinance, 3% of the total general obligation bonds will be allocated to the design, installation, purchase, training and monitoring of energy conservation initiatives or renewable energy projects. If the resolution is approved, funding opportunities will be available for these projects through the Facility, Energy & Security Management Division.
Notably, some city councilors are celebrating the inclusion of the Paseo del Norte Reconstruction project in the Capital Improvement Budget.
“For too long, the residents of Albuquerque’s Westside and Rio Rancho have relied solely on Coors Road/NM-528 for north-south travel,” Councilor Dan Lewis said. “This project will create a much-needed alternative, significantly improving mobility and accessibility for hundreds of thousands of residents.”
The multiphased project will begin construction this summer, utilizing already awarded funding and bids. The first phase seeks to expand Paseo del Norte and Unser Boulevard to a four-lane principal arterial.
The approved two-year budget provides seed funding for the second phase of the project, which extends Paseo del Norte to Rainbow Boulevard and Unser Boulevard to Kimmick Road. Phase two will also leverage federal funding from the Federal Highway Administration and state grants to extend and expand the roadways. When completed, the project is expected to equip residents with a continuous four-lane roadway from Albuquerque to Rio Rancho.
The city’s Capital Improvement Budget emphasizes fiscal responsibility, ensuring property taxes will remain stable while addressing the city’s aging infrastructure and facility needs. The plan also retains flexibility to accommodate new and existing priorities that may emerge down the line.
