Sign in Subscribe
Infrastructure (Economics)

Governor Cuts Ribbon on New $25M Bridge in Church Rock, Enhancing Pedestrian Safety

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham and the New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) recently celebrated the opening of a new $24 million bridge on NM 566 near Church Rock, which provides safer access for pedestrians with a dedicated walking trail. The steel girder bridge spans the BNSF Railway and replaces the old bridge, delivering improved pedestrian infrastructure that keeps community members off the highway and out of harm's way.

Key Takeaways:

  • The new bridge was constructed over 29 months at a cost of $24 million, funded through a combination of federal and state National Highway Performance Program funds.
  • The project includes full bridge replacement, roadway reconstruction, improved lighting, upgraded drainage systems, and a new pedestrian trail serving the Church Rock community.
  • The project was a collaborative effort between NMDOT District Six, the City of Gallup, and the Navajo Nation.
  • Governor Lujan Grisham emphasized the project's significance in protecting New Mexico families and improving access to every corner of the state.
  • NMDOT Secretary Ricky Serna highlighted the importance of working closely with the Navajo Nation and the City of Gallup to create safer, more direct access for the Church Rock community.
  • New Mexico's pedestrian fatality rate consistently ranks among the highest in the nation, making this project a vital step in protecting lives and strengthening communities.
  • The new bridge directly addresses the urgent need to improve pedestrian safety in New Mexico.

Statistics:

  • The bridge was constructed over 29 months at a cost of $24 million.
  • The project includes full bridge replacement, a new pedestrian trail, roadway reconstruction, improved lighting, and upgraded drainage systems.
  • New Mexico's pedestrian fatality rate consistently ranks among the highest in the nation.
  • The National Highway Performance Program funds supported the construction of the bridge.
  • Cooperative efforts between NMDOT, the City of Gallup, and the Navajo Nation were essential in the project's success.

Sources:

  • Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, "Governor cuts ribbon on new $25M bridge in Church Rock - Infrastructure upgrade creates safer pedestrian access," July 31 (https://www.governor.state.nm.us/2025/07/31/governor-cuts-ribbon-on-new-25m-bridge-in-church-rock-infrastructure-upgrade-creates-safter-pedestrian-access/)

Read more