GRIP Interstate 40 - Carnuel to Sedillo
Sections Completed:
I-40/Carnuel to Tijeras; July 2007
I-40/Zuzax to Sedillo; November 2008
I-40/Tijeras to Zuzax; October 2009
Interstate 40, Carnuel to Tijeras
The pavement on this 9.8-mile section of Interstate 40 -- which winds through the East Mountains -- is more than 30 years old. Extreme weather conditions and increasing traffic volumes caused the highway to deteriorate and settle. A portion of the highway -- a wildlife crossing -- is identified among the four highest risk areas in the state where large game animals and vehicles collide.
The New Mexico Department of Transportation worked with New Mexico Game & Fish, the United States Forest Service and local community groups to identify problem areas along this stretch of interstate. The highway will be reconstructed to reduce collisions between wildlife and vehicles traveling this winding road through the East Mountains. Highway planners designed safe crossing areas so that animals can travel safely in this area without being injured. The goal of this project is to make a safer highway while protecting wildlife.
The project cost an estimated $27 million.
Interstate 40, Zuzax to Sedillo
Contractors began reconstruction of the approximately four-mile stretch of highway on this project in May 2008. With a working schedule of 210 calendar days, the project was substantially completed in November 2008, with crews coming back in 2009 for striping and seeding work.
The $19.7 million GRIP project was completed in three phases. The work included widening two bridges to accommodate a new eastbound truck climbing lane, widening shoulders, improving merge distances at entrances and exits, and installing drainage improvements and a concrete wall barrier throughout the project.
Interstate 40, Tijeras to Zuzax
Contractors began work on March 30, 2009, and with a 210 calendar day schedule, completed the reconstruction project in October 2009.
The estimated $22 million GRIP project will be completed in two phases. In addition to reconstruction, additional safety features such as a concrete median wall barrier and game fence will be installed.
Detours & Traffic Information
For up-to-date information, visit www.nmroads.com.
For information about Park and Ride in this area, please visit www.nmparkandride.com, or click on Turquoise Route Schedule and Information.
