Road Warrior: NMDOT reports 33% decrease in traffic fatalities across the state in August

There were 26 traffic fatalities reported across New Mexico in August, according to data from the University of New Mexico and New Mexico Department of Transportation.

This marks about a 33% decrease from July, 39.

The county with the most traffic fatalities last month was Bernalillo County with six, which is 62.5% less than what was reported in July, 16. Counties with the second highest number were Doña Ana and Lea with three apiece.

“Roadway safety is a shared responsibility, from the roadway users traveling at appropriate speeds or not driving while under the influence of drugs and alcohol, to the people responsible for designing and maintaining the roadways infrastructure,” NMDOT spokesperson Kristine Bustos-Mihelcic said.

PRESERVING BEAUTY: NMDOT recently put up a social media post talking about its Adopt-A-Highway program. After reading it, I wanted to know a little more about it.

NMDOT District 1 spokesperson Ami Evans said the program allows groups to help keep roadsides clean by picking up litter at least twice a year. Groups can schedule more if they want as well as choose the number of miles they are comfortable maintaining.

NMDOT provides each volunteer group with two signs along with safety vests, trash bags and haul away service, she said.

“Adopt-a-Highway plays a vital role in preserving the safety, beauty and integrity of our state’s roadways,” Evans said. “By working together, we ensure our highways remain safe, welcoming and reflective of New Mexico’s natural beauty.”

In 2024, participants collected 140,880 pounds of trash from New Mexico highways, which is about a 37% decrease from 2023, 204,900 pounds, she said.

LEMA RECONSTRUCTION: On Monday, work is expected to begin on Lema Road from Western Hills Drive to Chessman Drive in Rio Rancho.

The project costs about $2.9 million and it will include new striping and traffic signage, the replacement of a 10-inch waterline, new fire hydrants and water valves and Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant ramps.

Work is expected to be completed in April, according to the city.

U.S. 60 ROAD WORK: Travelers heading down U.S. 60 between Abo and Willard can expect to see some construction.

Starting Monday, from mile marker 195 to 215, a lane will be closed so NMDOT crews can perform micro surface treatment on the asphalt.

“Micro surfacing is a treatment designed to extend the life of asphalt pavements in good condition by providing skid resistance, restricting moisture intrusion, protecting the structure from further oxidation and raveling, and restoring a uniform black appearance,” NMDOT District 5 spokesperson James Murray said in a news release. “It is the most economical choice when leveling is required. Micro surfacing boasts quick construction times and minimal disruption to the traveling public.”

Work is expected to be finished at the end of the month, he said.

“Motorists are reminded to use caution, observe all signs and detours,” Murray said, “and to reduce their speed and watch for workers in the work zone.

SLOW DOWN: NMDOT is reminding motorists to move over and slow down when they see emergency vehicles with flashing lights.

“When a vehicle with flashing lights is stopped on or next to a roadway, drivers approaching the vehicle should change into a lane not immediately adjacent to the vehicle, or slow down to a reasonable speed if you’re unable to safely make a lane change,” according to an NMDOT social media post.