Pedestrian bridge gets safety improvements in Albuquerque Sandia Vista neighborhood

Albuquerque District 9 City Councilor Renée Grout announced safety upgrades on an Interstate 40 footbridge in the city. The upgrades aim to keep children and families safe along key neighborhood travel routes. Local users say the crossing already feels nicer and safer.

The walkway spans Interstate 40 in the Sandia Vista neighborhood. It connects Morris Street to Tomasita near Eubank. Residents use the path to reach homes and stores such as Walmart and Target.

Students also use the walkway to reach Tomasita Elementary and Kennedy Middle School. It serves many walkers and cyclists.

“I know there are a lot of kids south of the interstate and they have to use that, and then its nice to see people with bikes using it,” Grout said. “So I know it’s a very well-traveled area and I think it’s important that we have it safe and that it’s friendly and inviting.”

A constituent contacted Grout about the neglected span in March. Grout then requested a crime prevention assessment from the Albuquerque Police Department. The assessment recommended fence repairs, better lighting, and fresh landscaping.

Grout organized the Municipal Development, Parks and Rec, and Solid Waste departments. Crews cleared out weeds and overgrown trees around the bridge.

“There was some lighting that wasn’t working, so we’re putting in lighting and a new path; the old path was all broken up. Last week they poured the concrete, and this week they’re doing some of the landscaping. Then D and D will go in with the new solar lighting in the near future. All those things have been ordered.”

Bonds set aside for city councilors every two years paid for the project. Grout said the work should finish by the end of the month.

“I’m happy to give that little area some life,” Grout said.

Crime prevention assessments allow local police to evaluate properties and recommend physical security changes. Municipal departments often work together to repair public paths, manage plants, and fix neighborhood lights.

Grout said anyone can schedule a home or business assessment in late spring. Residents can call the Albuquerque Police Department Foothills Area Substation at (505) 332-5240.