Honoring Gail Ryba: Interpretive Signs Unveiled

ALBUQUERQUE - The City of Albuquerque Parks & Recreation Department and BikeABQ honored the legacy of bicycle advocate Gail Ryba with the unveiling of two new interpretive signs on both ends of the Gail Ryba Memorial Bridge followed by a community bike ride across the bridge.

Ryba’s husband, Tom Robey, along with Parks & Recreation Director David Simon, BikeABQ board members, former Mayor Jim Baca, and many cyclists and friends of Ryba gathered to celebrate her lasting impact on Albuquerque’s bicycle infrastructure and culture.

Ryba played a central role in shaping Albuquerque’s cycling community in the 1990s until her death in 2010, uniting local riders and organizers to launch the group that would eventually become BikeABQ. She also founded the Bicycle Coalition of New Mexico. Her efforts helped spark a broader movement that encouraged the City to rethink how people move, commute, and connect. Ryba, a PhD chemist who worked at Sandia National Labs, also championed causes focused on environmental sustainability and climate change.

“Gail’s passion for safer, more accessible biking in Albuquerque continues to inspire our work every day,” said BikeABQ President Patrick Martin. “Remembering who Gail was — her vision, her leadership, and her tireless advocacy — reminds us to keep pushing for a city where everyone feels safe and welcome on a bike.”

Ryba’s influence remains deeply woven into Albuquerque’s cycling culture. The newly unveiled signs honor not only her contributions but also the spirit of possibility she brought to the community.

“Gail showed us what everyday people and city departments can accomplish by working together,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “The bridge and trail system surrounding it reflect years of collaboration she helped spark. Her advocacy strengthened Albuquerque’s recreational opportunities and quality of life, and we wanted to better memorialize her with these signs.”

The event concluded with a ride across the Gail Ryba Memorial Bridge, honoring her positive spirit that brought community together.