FAQs
Where is the project area?
The project area is located on I-25 between Sunport Boulevard and Avenida Cesar Chavez, including the Gibson Boulevard interchange.
Why is the project needed?
In the 2014 and 2016 studies, it was identified that the improvements in this area are needed to maintain and/or enhance performance and safety, accommodate future increases in travel demand, address multimodal accommodations, and support economic development in the corridor. Additionally, the project is needed to replace aging infrastructure.
To learn more about these studies, click here.
How can I provide input?
The project team is always accepting public feedback. If you have input to share, please email info@i25gibson.com or call 505-535-4442.
The second public meeting took place on Sept. 17, 2024. To learn more, visit Sept. 2024 Public Meeting.
The first public meeting was held on Feb. 22, 2024, which kicked off a public comment period through March 24, 2024. Click below to see the materials shared in that first meeting and the public input received.
What does a Preferred Alternative mean, and what was selected for the project area?
As part of the 2016 study, the NMDOT selected a Preferred Alternative in this project area, which is the alternative that best meets the purpose and need identified from the study area while minimizing environmental impacts. This Preferred Alternative proposes the construction of a tight diamond interchange at I-25 and Gibson Boulevard, incorporating frontage roads and braided ramps between Sunport Boulevard and Avenida Cesar Chavez. Additionally, improvements to bicycle and pedestrian facilities and will be designed throughout the project limits.
To learn more about the study, click here.
What is Phase 1C?
Phase 1C is the Environmental Documentation and Processing Phase. It involves preparation of an environmental document and subsequent processing in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The result of Phase 1C is the Federal Highway Association’s (FHWA) approval of the final environmental document and serves as authorization by the FHWA for right-of-way acquisition, final design, and construction.
What is a Design-Build project?
Design-Build is an innovative project delivery method where one team is hired to both design and construct the project. It maximizes design solutions, quality, schedule, and budget to construct the best project possible.
To learn more, click here.
When will construction begin?
A Design-Build team is anticipated to be selected in 2026, with construction anticipated to begin in 2027. The schedule can change as the project progresses.
To review the schedule, click here.
Why aren’t there traffic lights at heavily used Gibson Boulevard intersections?
When these intersections were first constructed, there wasn’t as much growth in this part of town as there is today. Therefore, there wasn’t a need for a traffic light at the time the road was constructed.
Will bicyclists and pedestrians be affected positively by the end result of this project?
We hope to have safer and more efficient sections for bicyclists and pedestrians to utilize. We are working with the City to collaborate on improvements.
Can you explain how southbound I-25 traffic will exit at Gibson Boulevard and go eastbound with the proposed design?
In order to improve safety for drivers entering and exiting I-25, the existing loop ramp will be removed and replaced with a more traditional off-ramp to Gibson Boulevard from southbound I-25. The new ramp location improves safety by eliminating a merge – having drivers exit for Gibson Boulevard before other drivers from Avenia Cesar Chavez merge onto southbound I-25. The exit name and number will remain the same and signage will be moved to accommodate the new change.