Bernalillo County, N.M. — Bernalillo County has closed the intersection of Blake Road and Belmont Drive SW as part of the yearlong Blake Road Improvement Project, a corridor redesign aimed at reducing flooding and improving pedestrian and bicycle safety.
“Emergency vehicles will always have access,” the county noted, emphasizing that traffic signs and control devices are in place to guide drivers safely through the area.
During the closure, all traffic should follow the posted detour via Joe Sanchez Boulevard and Barcelona Road. Access to Blake Road is limited:
- Local access only from the east end at Foothill Drive for residents and property owners within the active work zone
- No through traffic permitted
- Emergency vehicles will have access at all times
“Access to Blake Road will be available only from the east end at Foothill Drive for residents and property owners within the active work zone,” the county said. “Through traffic is not permitted.”
Construction began last month and will continue for approximately one year. The project area spans Blake Road SW from the Isleta Drain to Isleta Boulevard, with upgrades designed to address long‑standing drainage issues and enhance multimodal safety.
Planned improvements include:
- Curbs, gutter, and drains to manage stormwater
- ADA‑compliant sidewalks to improve accessibility
- Dedicated bike lanes to separate cyclists from vehicle traffic
“The project is addressing flooding concerns along the corridor while also improving pedestrian and bicycle safety,” the county’s notice states.
County officials say the temporary intersection closure is intended to reduce cut‑through traffic during construction, which can create unsafe conditions for workers and residents and slow progress on the improvements.
“Bernalillo County has closed the intersection of Blake Road and Belmont Drive SW to reduce cut‑through traffic during the yearlong Blake Road Improvement Project,” according to the announcement.
What Drivers Should Expect
- Detour signage is posted; follow routes via Joe Sanchez Blvd and Barcelona Rd
- Expect lower speeds, lane shifts, and periodic flagging operations near work crews
- Plan extra time during peak hours
The county’s goal is to keep the corridor safe and limit disruptions while essential work is underway. Residents within the work zone retain access from Foothill Drive, and first responders are not restricted by the closure.
“Traffic signs and control devices are in place to guide drivers safely through the area,” officials said.
Bernalillo County typically provides construction updates and maps for detours during major projects. Residents are encouraged to watch for posted signage in the field and observe all directions from traffic control personnel.
