Grand Avenue (Business Loop-15P) Alignment Study
Milepost 2.32 to 3.06 in Las Vegas, San Miguel CountyNMDOT Control No. 4101960
GRAND AVE STUDY OVERVIEW
WHERE IS THE STUDY AREA?
The New Mexico Department of Transportation in partnership with the Federal Highway Administration, is conducting a planning study to evaluate potential improvements to a portion of Grand Avenue (Business Loop-15P) in Las Vegas, New Mexico. The study area runs from just south of the Columbia Street (Milepost 2.32) to about 1,000 feet north of Mills Avenue (Milepost 3.06) and includes several key intersections – Washington Street, 1st Street, Garfield Avenue, Baca Avenue, and Mills Avenue.
This part of Grand Avenue is an important commercial corridor, home to many local businesses including restaurants, retail shops, gas stations, and hotels. Nearby, you’ll also find residential neighborhoods, local schools, New Mexico Highlands University, and area hospitals—all contributing to the area’s vitality.
WHAT IS THE GOAL FOR THE STUDY?
The goal of this study is to understand current transportation needs along Grand Avenue and identify improvements that enhance safety and mobility for all users. This alignment study will evaluate existing conditions and develop recommended solutions to address several key challenges, including:
- Aging and deteriorating roadway and drainage infrastructure
- Safety concerns at major intersections
- Inadequate pedestrian and bicycle facilities
These improvements aim to create a safer, more efficient, and accessible corridor for the entire community.
Figure 1. Study Area Map (click to enlarge).
WHERE ARE WE AND WHAT ARE THE NEXT STEPS?
The study team is currently gathering data on existing conditions and developing some preliminary improvement alternatives. This September, the team is holding an Open House to share findings with the community and gather feedback to help refine the proposed options. Once public input is incorporated, the alternatives will be further analyzed, and a prioritization plan will be created. This plan will guide phased implementation as funding becomes available.
PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT
You are invited to an Open House!
The New Mexico Department of Transportation will be hosting an Open House on September 15, 2026. Community members are invited to meet with our project team, learn about the preliminary results of the study, ask questions, and provide input and ideas for improving Grand Avenue.
Public input is a key part of the NMDOT Location Study process.
While funding for future improvements hasn’t been secured yet, this study will help identify the most important issues along the corridor and guide efforts to prioritize and seek funding.
In this first phase of outreach, we’re focused on introducing the study, hearing from people who use the corridor, and learning more about the real-world challenges facing all users.
Later in the process, we’ll come back to the public to share what we’ve learned, present possible improvement options, and gather feedback on the preferred alternative and how improvements could be phased over time.
OPEN HOUSE DETAILS
WERE
When: Tuesday, September 15, 2026, from 4:00pm-6:00pm
Where: Abe Montoya Recreation Center
1752 North Grand Avenue, Las Vegas, NM 87701
Las Vegas – Grand Avenue Alignment Study
Timeline
Spring 2025
- Collect existing condition data
Summer/Fall 2025
• Develop the purpose and need for the study
• Identify and develop preliminary alternatives to consider
Spring 2026
• Stakeholder meetings and Public Meeting
• Gather input from community
• Prepare draft Phase A document
Summer/Fall 2026
• Evaluate alternatives in detail
• Stakeholder meetings and Public Open House
• Gather feedback community
Winter 2027
• Identify a preferred alternative(s)
• Stakeholder and public engagement
• Prepare and finalize Phase 1-A/B Study
County
San Miguel
District
District 4
STIP Number
Status
Study and Design
Contact
South Region Design
Project Development Engineer
(575) 888-7146