Vote shows neighborhood support for Netherwood Park playground

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) –It was a story KRQE News 13 brought to you about a politician calling in a favor from Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham to nix a public works project in her neighborhood. Now, a recent vote shows a majority of people there support it.

Families had been pushing to add a playground at Netherwood Park between Indian School and I-40. They even did a survey showing a majority of residents supported the idea. That prompted their Senator, Gerald Ortiz y Pino, to request $200,000 in capital outlay money.

But, former Lt. Governor Diane Denish who lives in the neighborhood and opposed the playground, told KRQE News 13 she called Governor Lujan Grisham and had her veto the funding. Denish insisted the majority of the neighborhood didn’t want the playground.

The City of Albuquerque’s Parks and Recreation Department then requested a formal position from the neighborhood association. The association said 486 people took part in a vote this month, which was a record turnout, with 61% saying they want the city to look into building a playground. Supporters have now reached out to the city and governor pressing for action.

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