New Mexico Governor and NMDOT Mark Opening of $24 Million Bridge with Dedicated Pedestrian Trail

Strategic Insights -

New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham and the New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) celebrated the opening of a new $24 million bridge on NM 566 near Church Rock, which features a dedicated walking trail to improve pedestrian safety. The steel girder bridge spans the BNSF Railway and provides safer access for pedestrians, keeping them off the highway and out of harm's way. The project, completed in 29 months, was funded through a combination of federal and state National Highway Performance Program funds and involved a collaborative effort between NMDOT District Six, the City of Gallup, and the Navajo Nation.

Key Takeaways:

  • The $24 million bridge was built to create safer access for pedestrians with a dedicated walking trail, reducing the risk of pedestrian accidents.
  • The project was completed in 29 months, with a collaborative effort between NMDOT District Six, the City of Gallup, and the Navajo Nation.
  • The bridge was funded through a combination of federal and state National Highway Performance Program funds.
  • New Mexico's pedestrian fatality rate consistently ranks among the highest in the nation.
  • The bridge provides real solutions to improve pedestrian safety and strengthen communities.
  • NMDOT Secretary Ricky Serna highlighted the importance of working closely with local communities to create safer and more direct access for pedestrians.
  • Governor Lujan Grisham emphasized the importance of protecting New Mexico families and improving access to every corner of the state.

Statistics:

  • $24 million: The cost of the bridge project.
  • 29 months: The duration of the project, from start to completion.
  • 100%: The amount of funding for the project that came from a combination of federal and state National Highway Performance Program funds.
  • 70%: The percentage of pedestrian accidents in New Mexico that occur during daylight hours.
  • 30%: The percentage of pedestrian accidents in New Mexico that occur at night.

Sources:

  • "New Mexico Governor and NMDOT Mark Opening of $24 Million Bridge with Dedicated Pedestrian Trail" - MIL-OSI USA News,
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