funding for balloon fiesta transit stop wins state senate approval

A plan to build a new spur for the New Mexico’s popular Rail Runner commuter rail system has taken a significant step forward with the passage of a capital outlay bill in the New Mexico State Senate.
The project, as proposed by City of Albuquerque leaders, would see the transit service stopping at the Balloon Fiesta Park.
That park is the home to the annual International Balloon Fiesta, which attracts upwards of nearly 900,000 visitors in early October.
In an effort to lessen the inevitable traffic congestion that comes with the fiesta, Albuquerque has several times considered building a special spur just for the park.
It is thought that it will cost at least $8.4 million to build that spur, with the funding coming from a variety of sources, including the state and federal government.
Work on the spur project could begin later this year if all of the needed funding is secured, with a target completion in time for the fall 2021 fiesta.

By Garry Boulard

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