SW New Mexico News

Doña Ana County, NM - County Engineer Mo Moabed expressed his enthusiasm for the recent $2 million grant awarded to Doña Ana County by the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT). The grant aims to enhance the County's roads and transportation systems to withstand weather-related events and improve travel conditions during inclement weather.

Moabed highlighted that the grant will support the development of a roads master plan, focusing on creating better connectivity within the County. He emphasized, "The new system will identify existing roads and propose new roads, to help provide better access to and from all communities in the county, in case of evacuation, emergency response and for increased economic opportunities."

Acknowledging the environmental challenges faced by Doña Ana County, such as droughts, floods, and wildfires, the study funded by the grant will prioritize addressing the vulnerabilities of unincorporated communities and colonias with limited road access during emergencies. County Commission Chair Schlajo-Hernandez expressed gratitude for the grant, stating, "We appreciate USDOT for this $2 million grant, which will help us identify how to best enhance our roads during floods and adverse weather conditions."

The study, which involves over 20 partnering offices and departments, is expected to be completed within two years, followed by the implementation of the proposed projects. The County intends to continue seeking funding for additional road improvements to ensure that its infrastructure is equipped to handle changes in weather patterns.

For more information about the grant, interested individuals can visit https://www.transportation.gov/briefing-room/biden-harris-administration-announces-nearly-830-million-grants-make-transportation.