John Bacon

The commission convened to conduct its regular meeting, during which it addressed various operational matters. A significant portion of the session was dedicated to hearing public testimony regarding the deteriorating condition and urgent maintenance requirements of State Road 165. Property owners and stakeholders highlighted safety concerns, including challenges for emergency vehicle access and the potential need for fire evacuation routes. The commission acknowledged the need for further legal and administrative investigation to clarify maintenance responsibilities and committed to providing an update on the matter at a future meeting.

The commission held a meeting where they discussed the approval of the agenda, including the rescheduling of action items. The meeting included tributes and a moment of silence for deceased former employees and department associates. A key action item was the formal appointment of the new Secretary of Transportation, which was unanimously approved. The commission also received comments and greetings from various local officials and community representatives regarding regional transportation infrastructure and projects.

The meeting commenced with the reading of the title confirming it was the regular meeting of the New Mexico State Transportation Commission. The Chairman welcomed elected officials and employees, emphasizing the DOT family and honoring deceased members, including Herb Tenorio and Art Romero. The Commission reviewed the agenda and minutes from the Special Meeting of December 18, 2025. Public comment featured the Mayor of Aztec thanking the Commission for support on the arterial project, requesting assistance with the entrance/egress onto US 550 and NM 516 (Phase Three), and bringing up concerns regarding illegal operation of off-highway vehicles (OBVs). A Commissioner also discussed the large maintenance challenge in District 5 and emphasized the importance of the upcoming Local Government Road Fund and other funding opportunities.

The New Mexico State Rail Plan guides the state's rail freight and passenger transportation planning and project development, aiming to meet federal funding requirements. Its vision is to create a fully integrated, safe, and competitive multimodal rail system that supports sustainable, inclusive economic development statewide. Key goals include fostering economic growth and development, enhancing railroad safety and security, maintaining assets in good repair, and promoting efficient passenger rail services. The plan outlines a Rail Service and Investment Program for short-range (2025-2030) and long-range (2031-2045) improvements.

The Connect New Mexico: Statewide Public Transportation Plan is presented by the New Mexico Department of Transportation as an update to its 2010 plan. This document outlines NMDOT's commitment to providing safe, sustainable, and resilient public transportation to enhance residents' quality of life. The plan identifies current transit service gaps and evolving needs, aiming to improve urban and rural transit experiences through new policies and programs. Key strategic areas include developing rural and intercity transit services, enhancing procurement processes, assisting with zero-emission transitions, and improving driver retention, training, and data capabilities, with a vision to guide public transportation development and decision-making for the next decade.