ROSWELL, N.M. – The New Mexico Department of Transportation invites the public to join state and community leaders for a ribbon-cutting and dedication ceremony celebrating the official designation of the Roswell Relief Route as the Nancy Lopez Relief Route on Thursday, September 3, at 10 a.m. The ceremony will take place at the U.S. Highway 285 and Roswell Relief Route south intersection in Roswell.
The designation follows Senate Memorial 6 (SM 6), which requested that NMDOT name the Roswell Bypass in honor of Nancy Lopez. The New Mexico State Transportation Commission approved Resolution No. 2026-03 on May 21, 2026, officially designating the Roswell Relief Route as the Nancy Lopez Relief Route.
“This designation is a meaningful way to recognize Nancy Lopez’s remarkable legacy and the pride she has brought to Roswell and New Mexico,” said NMDOT District Two Engineer Francisco Sanchez, P.E. “We are proud to celebrate her accomplishments and her lasting impact on generations of athletes.”
Ceremony highlights will include:
- Dedication ceremony honoring Nancy Lopez
- Remarks from state and community leaders
- Official ribbon-cutting
- Unveiling of the Nancy Lopez Relief Route sign
- Light refreshments
Officials from NMDOT, local government and community partners are expected to attend. Members of the public are encouraged to join NMDOT in celebrating this historic dedication.