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N.M. Highway 4 Alignment Study

NM 502 to White Rock in Santa Fe County, Milepost 63.8 to 68.0

NMDOT Control No. 5101620

STUDY OVERVIEW

The New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT), in partnership with the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), is conducting an alignment study along New Mexico Highway 4 (NM 4) in Santa Fe County. The study area extends from Rover Boulevard to the NM 502 interchange (Milepost 63.8 to Milepost 68.0).

This study focuses on evaluating current roadway conditions and traffic operations to identify practical, cost-effective improvements. The goal is to enhance safety, mobility, and reliability for everyone who uses the corridor.

Key factors being considered include roadway design, drainage, environmental conditions, and the needs of surrounding communities.

WHAT ARE THE GOALS OF THIS STUDY?

The NM 4 Alignment Study aims to:

  • Improve safety for all roadway users
  • Enhance traffic flow and reduce congestion during peak travel times
  • Increase accessibility for all users
  • Upgrade pavement conditions
  • Improve drainage and stormwater management

ABOUT THE CORRIDOR

NM 4 is an important east–west route that connects the community of White Rock in Los Alamos County to NM 502. The corridor serves several key functions:

  • Provides a bypass route for heavy truck traffic
  • Offers alternate access to Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) via East Jemez Road
  • Connects travelers to the Tsankawi Unit of Bandelier National Monument via the West Jemez Road intersection

The study area passes through San Ildefonso Pueblo and includes land managed by LANL and the U.S. Department of Energy within Santa Fe County.

NM 4 Study Area Map, CN 5101620

STUDY PROGRESS

The study team has completed field investigations, data collection, and initial analyses of traffic, safety, roadway, and drainage conditions along the corridor.

We are currently finalizing traffic and roadway models to better understand how the corridor operates today. This work will help inform the next phase of the study, which includes developing and evaluating potential improvement alternatives.

Public involvement is also underway. Community members, stakeholders, and interested parties will have opportunities to provide input as alternatives are developed and reviewed. Your feedback will play an important role in shaping future recommendations for the corridor.

STUDY SCHEDULE

NM 4 Study Timeline, CN 5101620

PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT

Join Us for an In-Person Public Meeting

WHEN:  Wednesday, May 13, 2026, starting at 5:30 p.m. (Presentation begins at 6:00 p.m.)
WHERE:  White Rock Fire Station #3, 129 State Road 4, White Rock, NM 87547

We hope to see you there!

Community input is an important part of this process. Residents, stakeholders, and interested parties will have opportunities to share feedback as potential improvements are developed and reviewed. Your input will help shape future recommendations for the corridor.

Need Assistance?

For Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or Civil Rights Title VI accommodations and/or more information call or email Laura Rios at 480-619-3564 or at laura.rios@hdrinc.com.

Por favor comuníquese al (480) 619-3564 si desea esta informacion en Español.

GALLERY OF STUDY AREA

Aerial image of the NM 4 / NM 502 interchange at the north end of the study area.

A view of a rural segment of NM 4, featuring a two-lane roadway with little to no shoulder.

The intersection at East Jemez Road during construction in 2025, with improvements underway to enhance turning movements and traffic signal operations.

Traffic backed up along NM 4 during the reconstruction of the East Jemez Road intersection.

County

Santa Fe

District

District 5

STIP Number

5101620

Status

Study and Design

Contact

Jeanne Wolfenbarger
Project Development Engineer