City hopes to finish landing strip for Balloon Fiesta

Albuquerque has sod laid out and some paving work finished at a new landing spot for Balloon Fiesta pilots -- the city hopes to have the park finished by Oct. 4.

On the north side of Vista Del Norte Park -- off Osuna Road -- theres a patch of dirt where grass needs to go. However, its one of the last open spaces south of Balloon Fiesta Park.

A city spokesman said there are about 6 acres of sod that should be available in time for balloonists. The city has spent months preparing the land, hauling in dirt back in June.

The city admits its behind schedule with laying sod, and cites monsoon rains for the delay.

Were optimistic were going to meet that deadline of being ready for Balloon Fiesta, city spokesman Keith Reed said.

The dirt to the east of the park will remain intact, as the city doesnt have the money to develop it. In addition to the sod, crews need to finish installing sprinklers.

The project will cost about $1.3 million. The city needs $1.6 million to complete the projects second phase.

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City hopes to finish landing strip for Balloon Fiesta