New Mexico Sun: Albuquerque awarded up to $18.5 million for Sunport Rail Spur modernization

The City of Albuquerque has been selected to receive up to $18.5 million through the Federal Railroad Administration's Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements Grant Program to rehabilitate and modernize the Sunport Rail Spur, according to an Oct. 22 announcement. The federal investment aims to strengthen Albuquerque's freight transportation network and support future economic development opportunities throughout the region.

"Albuquerque already has the airport, the rail line, the interstate connections, and the land. This investment helps us put those assets to work together," said Mayor Tim Keller. "Investments like this strengthen our competitive edge, connect local industry to new markets and help build a stronger economic future for communities across New Mexico."

The Sunport Rail Spur Project will improve approximately six miles of existing railroad track near the Albuquerque International Sunport. Planned improvements include track upgrades, a new rail siding, connections to nearby industrial properties, a retaining wall for erosion prevention, as well as advanced security and railcar monitoring technology.

Senator Martin Heinrich said, "Investing in New Mexico's commercial infrastructure helps grow our economy and create good-paying jobs for New Mexico families. This $18.5 million federal investment will restore a critical section of track at the Albuquerque International Sunport, improve safety and freight service, and create new opportunities to move goods through one of the Southwest's most important cargo hubs."

New Mexico Transloading-the spur's first client-has already invested about $1.4 million in rehabilitating part of the line. Director of Aviation Manny Manriquez said, "The Sunport Rail Spur is a critical piece of infrastructure in our vision for the Sunport as a multimodal commerce center and internationally connected trade port... By strengthening connections between rail, air and regional industry, we're laying the groundwork to attract new businesses, expand access to global markets and position Albuquerque as a more competitive hub for freight, logistics and industrial development."

The Aviation Department thanked U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich and Ben Ray Luján; U.S. Representatives Gabe Vasquez, Melanie Stansbury and Teresa Leger Fernandez; Bernalillo County Economic Development Office; City Economic Development Department; as well as New Mexico Transloading for their support.

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