Albuquerque is getting a world-classs new piece of bicycle infrastructure

When contemplating the best and most stunning bicycle infrastructure in the world, European countries such as The Netherlands dominate the narrative, but that might be changing. For instance, Albuquerque, New Mexico is set to go ahead with a stunning rail trail designed by world-renowned architect Antoine Predock.

The Albuquerque Rail Trail could be a transformative bicycle infrastructure project for the city, as Predock aims to craft a contemporary and artistic pathway that encapsulates the essence of the region’s culture and history. The Rail Trail is poised to redefine downtown neighborhoods and enhance the urban experience.

Spanning seven to eight miles, the Albuquerque Rail Trail is a multi-use trail intended to connect key destinations within the downtown area, fostering economic growth, promoting healthy recreational activities, and serving as a canvas for cultural expression. Central to the project is the integration of functional pedestrian pathways with innovative storytelling, shaping the Rail Trail into a unifying symbol of the collective spirit of the city.

When conceptualizing the trail’s design, the City of Albuquerque deliberately sought an architect capable of weaving the distinctive character, beauty, and historical significance of the city into the trail’s fabric. With decades of residence in Albuquerque, Predock’s profound connection to the area fuels his passion for the project. As a world-renowned architect who has chosen to make Albuquerque his home, Predock is uniquely poised to bring a blend of expertise and genuine affection to the Rail Trail endeavor.

“This Rail Trail project holds the potential to define our city and stand as a landmark for generations to come,” said Mayor Tim Keller during a presentation unveiling the design. “We extend our gratitude to the dedicated team of architects and community members who share in this vision. Together, we are crafting a space that will hold a special place in the hearts of residents, visitors, and families alike.”

The trail’s expanse will be divided into distinctive segments, referred to by Predock as “auras.” Each aura will be a homage to the culture and history of the corresponding area, featuring designated “plazitas” that function as access points and communal spaces for various activities. These plazitas will incorporate digital presentations outlining the zone’s narrative, incorporating elements such as music, people, cuisine, and the broader cultural tapestry.

Predock’s design identifies the following auras along the trail:

1. Rio: Celebrating the role of the Rio Grande as a life-sustaining force in Albuquerque, this zone connects to the Bosque Trail, leading visitors to the river.
2. Origins / Albuquerque: Old Town, an iconic hub of Spanish Colonial history, stands as a focal point for both locals and tourists.
3. Tiguex: Honoring the area’s original inhabitants, the Tiguex people, this zone acknowledges their enduring legacy and contribution to the city’s vibrancy.
4. Sawmill: Paying tribute to the once-prominent lumber industry, this zone highlights the neighborhoods that flourished around sawmills.
5. Enchantment / Enchantment Plaza: Providing panoramic views of the Sandias, volcanoes, and the breathtaking natural landscape, this zone celebrates Albuquerque’s enchanting scenery.
6. Industry: This zone’s historical role as an industrial hub is remembered through its collection of factories and warehouses.
7. 66: Recognizing the significance of Route 66, this zone reflects Albuquerque’s history as a crossroads for travelers and commerce.
8. Iron Horse: Honoring the transformative impact of railways, this zone acknowledges the role of the Rail Yards as an economic cornerstone during industrialization.
9. Barelas: A tribute to one of Albuquerque’s oldest neighborhoods, born from the city’s railroad history, and maintaining its traditional essence.
10. Umbral: Meaning “threshold” in Spanish, this zone marks the original crossing of the Rio Grande and the entry point for the Camino Real.

An emblematic image of Albuquerque takes center stage in Predock’s design: the tumbleweed. Envisioning a monumental electric tumbleweed, Predock underscores the symbolism of these hardy plants, rooted yet adaptable, echoing the resilience of Albuquerque’s community spirit.

“Beginning with Enchantment Plaza and culminating with that auspicious American crossroads moment at Central Crossing where US Route 66 was joined by the railroad, the Rail Trail reveals layers of the Land of Enchantment,” said Antoine Predock. “The intense polychrome graphics on the trail’s surface at each stop along the eight-mile circle tell the story of the neighborhoods, and of Albuquerque, summing up the Land of Enchantment.”

Albuquerque’s historical narrative, spanning from indigenous trade routes to the bustling era of Route 66, is intrinsically one of crossroads. This enduring tale, transcending time and space, is celebrated through the visionary Rail Trail project.

More bicycle infrastructure like this please.

For a guide to biking around Albuquerque click here.