Hundreds of road construction projects across New Mexico could be delayed or canceled after state lawmakers failed to pass a key funding bill earlier this year. The Asphalt Pavement Association of New Mexico (APANM) says the impact could be severe, with hundreds of workers potentially losing jobs and road conditions worsening statewide.
The bill, which would have unlocked $1.3 billion in bonding capacity, was never brought to a vote on the final day of the legislative session. As a result, the New Mexico Department of Transportation’s budget dropped from an average of $200 million annually to just $65 million this year. APANM says that amount barely covers basic maintenance and leaves little room for new construction.
“It’s not just highway contractors,” said Bob Wood with Albuquerque Asphalt. “It’s heavy equipment suppliers, subcontractors, surveyors, and testing labs. When there’s a lack of funding, that means fewer projects—and fewer jobs.”
Construction companies report that 42% of urban roads and over 30% of rural roads are in poor condition. APANM is now asking the state for $500 million in emergency funding to keep projects moving and is urging Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham to take action during next week’s special session.
The governor’s office expressed disappointment that the bill didn’t pass but confirmed it’s not on the special session agenda. However, the governor says she will continue to advocate for road funding in the upcoming 30-day session starting in January.
