ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – The New Mexico Department of Transportation is taking a closer look at traffic flow at one of Albuquerque’s busiest interchanges. Engineers are studying the Big I, where I-40 and I-25 meet, to address growing congestion and crash risks—particularly on ramps from I-40 to northbound I-25 during morning peak hours.
While the interchange generally performs well, officials say the increased traffic volume has created bottlenecks and safety concerns. Possible solutions include adding lanes or redesigning merge areas to improve long-term mobility.
The Big I is a complex stack interchange located near downtown Albuquerque. Originally built in the mid-1960s to handle about 60,000 vehicles per day, it was completely reconstructed between 2000 and 2002 to accommodate up to 400,000 vehicles daily. The $293 million project remains the largest public works effort in New Mexico history and significantly reduced traffic delays after completion.
The current study builds on a 2022 report and is part of a broader effort to modernize infrastructure and reduce delays. NMDOT is asking for public input through an online survey.
