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Residents and advisory commission press NMDOT for repairs and striping on Corrales Road crosswalk
Summary
The Corrales Bicycle & Pedestrian Advisory Commission urged the council to pursue maintenance and striping of a neglected crosswalk/path on Corrales Road near Cottonwood Montessori, requesting a partnership with NMDOT and local public works to improve pedestrian safety.
Stevie Kunsler and Garth Dowling of the Corrales Bicycle & Pedestrian Advisory Commission presented photos and a plan for a short, poorly maintained shoulder and pathway on Corrales Road (NM 448) between the Montessori crosswalk and Jones Road. The presenters said New Mexico Department of Transportation funded a crosswalk enhancement there around 2014 but that the shoulder is now covered in sand, gravel and tire tracks and lacks clear striping to distinguish motor-vehicle lanes from a pedestrian shoulder.
"We suggest that a request be made to New Mexico DOT to implement necessary changes in this regard," Kunsler told the council, urging the village to explore striping and regular maintenance. The presenters recommended Corrales Public Works repaint crosswalk striping and add pedestrian images on Coronado Road to better define the pedestrian zone.
Councilors asked staff to locate project paperwork from 2014; one councilor suggested the trails master plan might contain the record. The mayor said staff will raise the issue with NMDOT at a scheduled meeting the next day to explore a partnership or permission for village crews to make some improvements. Councilor Alsobrook suggested the village could stripe Coronado without DOT if the agency declines; councilors also raised repainting faded crosswalks across the commercial area as a broader maintenance need.
Why it matters: The corridor is near an elementary school and a recreational center and is used by children and cyclists. Councilors said better striping and signage could reduce instances of motorists mistaking the shoulder for an extra lane and improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists.
What comes next: Staff will compile existing documentation, share it with the clerk, and pursue the scheduled meeting with NMDOT to determine whether DOT or the village will carry out the maintenance.
Evidence: Reporter quotes and requests come from the advisory commission presentation and subsequent council discussion recorded in the meeting transcript.
