CARRIZOZO – The New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) District Two will begin a $21 million road construction investment along the U.S. 54 corridor later this month. The construction work will take place in two phases north and south of Carrizozo to address pavement conditions along the route, provide a smoother surface and implement safety improvements.
“This is not a small patch job. It’s a major makeover on a very important corridor for Southeast New Mexico that supports economic development with freight traveling along the route daily,” said Department of Transportation Secretary Michael Sandoval. “More importantly, the project will also improve safety along this section of highway.”
“The large truck traffic means good things are happening in southeast New Mexico. It also means, U.S. 54 has taken a beating,” said District Two Engineer Tim Parker. “Our biggest priority is making the road safe to travel on day in and day out. We’re proud to invest much needed work along the U.S. 54 corridor.”
Weather permitting, the project will take approximately two years to complete. Motorists can expect lane restrictions, temporary lane closures and pilot cars. Speed will be reduced to 45 mph during the work. Motorists are encouraged to use caution while driving through the work zone and obey all traffic signs.
For up-to-date information on this project, go to the statewide road information website at www.nmroads.com.