The purpose of Tribal Liaison at NMDOT is to maintain the government-to-government relationships outlined in New Mexico's State-Tribal Collaboration Act and to assure compliance with the federal tribal coordination requirements.

The NMDOT increased its participation and partnership with tribal governments significantly since 2004 through completing Memoranda of Agreements (MOAs) and Joint Powers Agreements (JPAs) with all of the pueblos and tribal nations in the State. In addition, New Mexico is one of a small number of states that support and encourage tribal participation in the MPO and RTPO State transportation planning processes. The NMDOT Tribal Liaison is proactive in conducting outreach, mediating misunderstandings between tribal entities and the NMDOT and building close relationships based on experience and accountability.

Ron D. Shutiva, Tribal Liaison
505-670-5465
ron.shutiva@dot.nm.gov