Downtown Albuquerque Celebrates New Central Avenue Bike Lanes
Albuquerque District 2 City Councilor Joaquín Baca, officials from Strong Towns ABQ, BikeABQ, and downtown residents celebrated the successful completion and official opening of the Central Avenue bike lane restriping project with a ‘ribbon-cutting’ ceremony held at 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 9th.
The event marked a significant milestone in the Downtown Core Beautification Project, spearheaded by Councilor Baca, and highlighted the City’s commitment to improving bicycle infrastructure and pedestrian safety.
The newly restriped bike lanes along Central Avenue from 1st Street to 8th Street and other parking and traffic improvements improve downtown connectivity. This project directly links West Downtown, EDo, and the future Rail Trail, providing cyclists with a safer and more efficient route.
“This project is about more than just painting lines on the road,” stated Councilor Baca. “It’s about creating a safer, more accessible downtown for everyone. These bike lanes will improve the experience for cyclists and pedestrians and maintain vital parking and access for our local businesses and establishments.”
The Central Avenue bike lane restriping is a key component of Councilor Baca’s broader vision for downtown revitalization. He emphasized the importance of collaboration and partnership in activating downtown spaces and strengthening community connections.
“Across the United States, downtown areas are the beating hearts of our cities,” stated Ken Sears, President, ABQCore Neighborhood Association. “Locally, we are fortunate to have government officials, like Councilman Baca, who understand this and are working tirelessly to revitalize our historic downtown on Route 66. By forging strong partnerships and working together, we can create a vibrant, thriving downtown Albuquerque that will attract businesses and benefit everyone.”
This phase of the project, completed with the ribbon-cutting, focused on the restriping of the bike lanes and other enhancements including the addition of bike lane buffers, new signage, and tubular markers to improve safety at intersections further and create a greater separation between pedestrians and motorists.
“Safety is our top priority,” stated Steve Pilon, BikeABQ Board Member. “These additional measures will ensure that cyclists and pedestrians can navigate downtown safely and confidently. In addition, having bike lanes on Albuquerque's Main Streets like Central will make it more convenient for cyclists to patronize businesses along these avenues and contribute to the revitalization of downtown and other historic commercial areas like 4th Street.”
The ribbon-cutting event was attended by community members, local business owners, and cycling enthusiasts, all eager to experience the new bike lanes. The event underscored the community’s support for initiatives that enhance downtown infrastructure and promote active transportation.
“We are excited to see the positive impact these bike lanes will have on our community,” stated Mark Bailon with Strong Towns ABQ. “This project is a testament to our commitment to creating a vibrant, safe, and accessible downtown for all Albuquerque residents and visitors.”
Central Avenue Bike Lane Project Features:
Improved Connectivity: Links West Downtown, EDo, and the upcoming Rail Trail.
Enhanced Safety: Provides dedicated bike lanes with bike lane buffers, signage, and tubular markers.
Downtown Revitalization: Part of Councilor Baca’s Downtown Core Beautification Project.
Community Collaboration: Emphasizes the importance of partnerships in downtown development.
Multiuse Access: Ensures parking and access for downtown businesses.