Mayor makes another push for Paseo

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) - Mayor Richard Berry was out campaigning Thursday but not for office, he is trying to persuade voters to approve a $50 million bond come November.

The bond would be for the massive interchange overhaul at Paseo Del Norte and I-25.

With Governor Martinez, as well as county and other local leaders at his side the Mayor tried once again sell the $93 million project to the voters.

The plans have not changed, just the immediacy.

Governor Martinez made that clear at the news conference describing what would happen if voters did not approve the bond.

“There is a very real potential that Paseo Del Norte and I-25 may not see improvements for many years to come,” Martinez said.

Paseo and I-25 has long been a problem spot with traffic backing up every day during the morning and evening rush hours.

This project was on the ballot last year but it was tied to a sports complex and the voters said no.

The state has already set aside $30 million Bernalillo County will ask voters to chip in another $5 million in November.

The city's $50 million contribution is the last piece of the puzzle.

“I’m just going to come out and say it as a Mayor I need your help, the state needs your help, we all need your help we need to you to come out in November and we need you to vote for this bond issue,” Mayor Berry said.

The governor also announced a new website, www.paseoi25.com and tip line number (505) 245-3150 for people who have questions or suggestions about the project.

If approved in November construction could start as early as next summer.

The project will take between 18 and 24 months, that means it could be up and running by late 2014.