It’s been six months since the city held an event to mark the beginning of demolition work at the pedestrian tunnels, located on Central Avenue under the railroad tracks to First Street in Downtown Albuquerque. Crews have demolished part of an Alvarado Transportation Center structure and some exterior walls near the south tunnel, but otherwise, not much has changed.
Both tunnels — north and south — are to be brought above ground (dubbed the “First Central Crossing”) as part of the beginning of the multiphase and multimillion dollar Rail Trail development, which is a planned 7-mile walking and biking trail eventually linking Downtown to historic neighborhoods, cultural destinations, entertainment options, mass transit and the city’s Rail Yards.
The pedestrian tunnels have frustrated multiple mayors and city administrations spanning decades, each admitting to the uncomfortable and often unsafe conditions experienced by those who use the option to access Downtown.
“I lived here in the ’80s and it used to be beautiful,” said one woman reluctant to use the still-open north tunnel late last week.
Part of the frustration stems from the need for significant bureaucratic coordination with multiple entities like Amtrak, the New Mexico Department of Transportation, Rio Metro Regional Transit and BNSF Railway. Nevertheless, officials say the project is on its original track to be completed by mid-2025.
City Desk ABQ checked in with Metropolitan Redevelopment Agency spokesperson Sarah Supple about the project. The MRA is the city entity overseeing the First Central Crossing and other phases of the Rail Trail. Answers have been edited for length and clarity.
City Desk ABQ: What has been accomplished since May?
Supple: We’ve successfully completed the demolition work at the site and wrapped up the underground investigation. An underground investigation is done to ensure that critical infrastructure, such as utility systems or other buried structures, will not be impacted during construction.
Has the timeline shifted?
The completion timeline remains largely on track, though progress will depend on factors like weather conditions and the timing of project approvals.
Why has it been so difficult to get this project done?
This project represents the first major improvement to the bridge area in decades, involving coordination among different government and private entities. Addressing safety, construction and security concerns requires careful alignment across all parties, which adds complexity to the process.
What have been the biggest roadblocks?
The biggest challenge since May has been securing the necessary site approvals, which are critical to moving the project forward.
Where is the most visible Rail Trail progress taking place?
The Sawmill District is where we’re seeing the most progress right now. That section of the trail has been easier to advance because it’s relatively flat and the property is already owned by the city.
For more on the Rail Trail, click here.