Officials have unveiled the new southbound I-25 on-ramp relocated from Tramway Ave. to a new location farther south, providing easier access from Balloon Fiesta Park.
“This means that the Balloon Fiesta is going to be a more memorable experience for everyone,” said Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham. “Let’s make sure we keep investing in the places where it really makes a difference.”
Construction on the $2.5 million project began in late July, and was substantially complete by early September, according to a press release. The relocated ramp is open and ready to serve the heavy traffic load expected at this year’s Balloon Fiesta.
“The new ramp should greatly improve the experience exiting the park for all of this year’s Balloon Fiesta attendees,” said Patrick Montoya, Director of the Department of Municipal Development.
In addition to the new slip ramp, the city has been completing additional improvements to Balloon Fiesta Park. In all, visitors to Balloon Fiesta Park will experience approximately $2.2 million in additional improvements this year. Those improvements include a new park & ride bus depot, a new northeast parking lot with an additional 500-vehicle capacity, repaving and improved access along Pilots Parkway, and much more.
“The Balloon Fiesta is a great opportunity to showcase our city and our state,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “Over the last 50 years, Balloon Fiesta has transformed into a major international event, these additions are just one way we’re working to set the stage for another 50 years of success, improving the experience for Burqueños and visitors alike.”
