Standard&Poor's assigned its 'AAA' long-term rating, with a stable outlook, to Albuquerque, N.M.'s general obligation (GO) bonds series 2009A. At the same time, Standard&Poor's affirmed its 'AAA' long-term rating and underlying rating (SPUR) on the city's parity debt. The ratings reflect our opinion of the city's: Diversified economic base, which has allowed the city to successfully manage its operations through previous economic cycles; Good wealth and income levels; and Low overall debt burden, with rapid amortization of principal and moderate future capital needs. The GO bonds are secured by the city's full faith and credit pledge, payable from unlimited property tax revenues. Albuquerque, with a population of approximately 526,000, is New Mexico's largest city and main
