Road Warrior: What's delayed striping on Paseo from Eagle Ranch to Golf Course?

NO STRIPE FOR YOU: “Westside Tony” asks why, two years after a “much needed” resurfacing on Paseo del Norte between Eagle Ranch and Golf Course, the crosswalks, right-hand turn-only lanes and other markings still haven’t been painted.

The New Mexico Department of Transportation, which manages that stretch, is hoping to paint only once. According to Kimberly Gallegos, a NMDOT spokesperson, a new development in the area will require a changed street layout upon its completion.

Once NMDOT maintenance has finished the project off with an open-graded friction course pavement — a layer of asphalt on top of the road — stripes will be added.

SLUSH FUN: It’s time to get out the snow-te — ahem, vote — and decide which snowplow name will ice the competition.

At the end of 2023, the state Department of Transportation announced it would be hosting its inaugural “Name a NMDOT Snowplow” competition. Since the department first opened up submissions, it received almost 1,600 name suggestions.

NMDOT has since narrowed the list to 50 names, which New Mexicans can vote for. Each person can vote up to six times.

But don’t be a snow-poke — voting closes Jan. 10. Vote at www.dot.nm.gov.

DON’T SLIP AND SLIDE ON ICY ROADS: In anticipation of weekend storms, APD Traffic Cmdr. Benito Martinez had this advice at a Thursday news conference about the city’s preparations for the winter weather:

• Stay off the roads if possible.

Just because a road appears to be salted, doesn’t mean it’s safe. The salt could not have taken effect yet, leaving the road still icy and slippery.

• Leave early for your destination.

Alaina Mencinger answers questions about the city’s roads and traffic. Please send your questions and tips to road@abqjournal.com.