KUNM Call In Show Thu. 2/11 8a: The city of Albuquerque was approved for a federal grant to build a rapid transit bus system down Central Avenue. The city would also borrow $13 million to fund the project. The design would create a center lane along the corridor for buses running every 7 to 8 minutes.
Advocates say it would transform Albuquerque by bringing more investment, housing and business activity along Central. One study argues it will bring more business to Nob Hill as well. But opponents argue it will hurt businesses suffering from the ongoing recession, increase congestion and could harm historic Route 66. Some people are saying the funds would be better spent elsewhere to leverage the city's existing strengths.
What do you think? Do we need a massive redesign for our transit system? Do you like the bus system now? Would you ditch your car for a new mass transit system if it was more convenient?
We'd like to hear from you! Email callinshow@kunm.org or call in live during the show.
Guests:
- Pat Davis, Albuquerque City Council Member
- Dayna Crawford, manager of Albuquerque Rapid Transit Project
- Jean Bernstein, CEO Flying Star Cafes and Satellite Coffee
Further Reading:
- Albuquerque Journal: Rapid Transit Wins Support From Obama Administration
- ABQ Rapid Transit website
- Open Letter from Concerned Citizens regarding design and possible alternatives to the current project
- Mid-Region Council of Governments: Regional Accessibility Benefits Associated With Implementation of the Albuquerque Rapid Transit on Central Ave.
- KOB-TV: Nob Hill Business Owners Want to Recall Davis Over Rapid Transit Project
- Albuquerque Journal Op-Ed: ART Doesn't Play To Albuquerque's Strengths
- Institute For Transportation and Development Policy: Letter In Support of ART
- KRQE-TV: Postcards Call For End To Rapid Transit
- T4America: New Study Finds Positive Economic Development Benefits Associated With Bus Rapid Transit
- Better Burque Blog: Is ART More About West Central Than Nob Hill?
