LETTER TO THE EDITOR: Rio Rancho, the BLOCK and accessibility

Rio Rancho is proud of one of its newest commercial developments, "the Cube." The Cube is a very welcomed addition to us who live in the Enchanted Hills neighborhood. For years we have had to go elsewhere for much of our shopping needs. Now we will have a variety of vendors to choose from.

Having lived in the Enchanted Hills neighborhood for over 20 years, my wife and I decided to check out the Cube and get dinner at one of its establishments. I am disabled due to a serious fall last spring that forced my wife and me into an assisted living facility for months. My wife also has a mobility problem. As a result, we both walk with a cane. Sometimes we have to use a walker, and I have been issued a handicapped parking permit by the State.

What I don’t understand is why was the developer given permission by the city to open the Cube to the public with the following two serious outstanding issues. First, there is no handicapped parking. The parking lot that supports the Cube is located across the street and is an unlit dirt and stone field. One who parks there has to cross a four-way intersection, with stop signs, which is insufficiently lit to ensure the safety of pedestrians. Second, there is no visible handicapped acceptable entrance to the facility. My wife and I walked around the Cube, and we were unable to find a ramp or other accessible means to enter the complex, so, we were forced to walk up and walk down a set of stairs.

Until these issues are addressed by the developer and city, we will not patronize the Cube. What really irks me about this situation is, after our visit I sent an email to the mayor outlining my concerns but have never received any response from his office or anyone else in city government. I did get an acknowledgment, so I know the email was received.

Harry Gordon

Rio Rancho