Project Area
The project area extends along Interstate 40 through Gallup from just east of the Puerco River near the Miyamura Interchange. This section of I-40 serves as a critical transportation route for residents, businesses, visitors, and freight movement through western New Mexico. Several restaurants, hotels, retail businesses, and transportation facilities are located within and near the project corridor, including a nearby BNSF Railway yard near the US 491 interchange.  

Existing Conditions  
I-40 currently has two travel lanes in each direction. Each travel lane is 12 feet wide.  Additionally, the inside shoulders are about 4 feet wide and outside shoulders are about 10 feet wide. Between the directions of travel there’s an earthen median that varies from 28 to 52 feet wide. 

Pavement in this area is deteriorating with visible cracking and rutting. The existing narrow shoulders and deteriorating art panels within the slope paving have sustained damage over time, and roadside safety features no longer meet current standards. Together, these conditions create operational and safety concerns and highlight the need for improvements along this section of I-40. 

Potential Traffic Impacts During Construction 

When construction begins, work crews may need to require temporary traffic control measures to safely accommodate construction activities while maintaining mobility through the corridor.  

Motorists should expect minor delays as work progresses from west to east along the project limits.  

Periodic lane restrictions will be necessary, and nighttime paving operations will require reducing I-40 to a single lane in certain areas.  

Maloney Avenue will be reduced to one lane during artwork rehabilitation activities.  

Safety remains the highest priority throughout construction, and drivers are encouraged to remain alert, follow posted traffic control devices, reduce speeds in work zones and use caution when traveling through active construction areas to protect both workers and fellow motorists. 

Next Steps 

The project is currently in final design, with plans to start accepting bids from contractors in mid-2027. Construction is expected to begin in late 2027. 

How to Participate

NMDOT is holding an Online Open House from September 17th to October 18th, 2026. We invite you to review the Project Presentation and share your questions and feedback via the comment form below.

Online Presentation Available HERE 

If you have concerns or questions, share them with our team by October 18th. Comments can be shared online (below), by phone, mail, or email.

MAIL: I-40 Road and Art Panel Improvements in Gallup​
c/o HDR​
2155 Louisiana Blvd NE, Suite 3000​
Albuquerque, NM 87110​

EMAIL: connect@i40gallupproject.com 

PHONE: 505-404-3197​​