KUNM Call In Show 10/16 8a:
A new water system for the Cebolleta Land Grant down South. A dam in Cabresto, near Taos. The new interchange at Paseo del Norte and I-25 in Albuquerque. The Spaceport. These are the kind of infrastructure projects that move water and people around the state—and maybe someday, outer space. They cost a lot of money, and some or most of that money comes from the state.
The state also funds a bunch of smaller projects. Things you’ve never heard of that really don’t have much to do with building infrastructure or economic development. That’s because, critics say, the system is really good at helping politicians throw little pieces of pork around their districts—and not very good at making a list of important projects, giving them the money they need and getting them done.
How did we get so turned around and what are some ideas for a way forward?
Guests:
- Sandra Fish, data journalist, New Mexico in Depth
- Fred Nathan, executive director, Think New Mexico
- Rep. Sharon Clahchischilliage
Read more:
- New Mexico in Depth's reporting on this issue: "Capital Dilemma"
- Think New Mexico's reform initiative: "Fixing NM's Public Infrastructure Spending"
- Albuquerque Journal editorial: "2016 the year to reform NM capital outlay"
- New Mexico State Legislature's 2015 capital outlay bills
