Big I Landscaping at Dusk

This superb photo of the recently completed Big I landscaping comes from Robert Reck, a student at UNM. This image won the merit award in a Photographing the Built Environment course. It along with other tremendous photos are currently on display at George Pearl Hall (the Antoine Predock designed School of Architecture and Design building located across from the Frontier Restaurant). Imagine if such an attractive, billboard-free landscape stretched from the Sunport to Bernalillo.

Rio Rancho Roundabout Revolution

Rio Rancho is beginning to live up to its "City of Vision" slogan with the introduction of multiple roundabouts. Aesthetically pleasing, accident-reducing roundabouts are being constructed in numerous locations: Loma Larga near the high school/pool/library, Cabezon Boulevard/Western Hills Drive, Wilpett Road/King Boulevard and Cherry Road/17th Avenue. City has even posted information on how to navigate a roundabout. Image at right shows potential crash points at traditional light controlled intersection. Image at left shows how roundabouts greatly reduce potential accidents and totally eliminate head on collisions.

What Could Be

Great Streets Plan aims to make ABQ more livable. Picture is planned improvement of Atrisco Dr./Central Avenue NW. (1) colors, texture and patterns clearly mark pedestrian space (2) trees, lights and transit shelter provide buffer from traffic (3) small reduction in speed and vehicle lane width supports safer walking and cycling (4) bike lane provides designated space for cycling (5) bike box allows cyclist to ride into the intersection and make turn first, while remaining highly visible (6) median offers pedestrian refuge (7) buildings located close to sidewalk encourage pedestrian patronage.

Council takes up this proposal on April 14, 5 p.m., Council Committee Room, 9th floor, Albuquerque/Bernalillo County Government Center. If this idea appeals to you please attend this event and please contact your Council member.