STUDY OVERVIEW

In 2022, Congress designated the Ports-to-Plains route between Laredo, Texas, and Raton, New Mexico, as a future interstate corridor. Federal legislation in 2024 established the numbering framework for Interstate-27 (I-27). The Ports-to-Plains Corridor is a major north–south transportation and international trade corridor intended to improve connectivity between Mexico, the United States, and Canada, linking international ports of entry, agricultural regions, energy-producing regions, manufacturing centers, and major interstate highways across Texas, New Mexico, Colorado, and other Great Plains states.

The New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) is studying the US 64/US 87 corridor between Raton and the Texas state line to evaluate the potential conversion of approximately 92 miles of state highway into a future interstate facility. This study will identify the recommended alignment for I-27 in New Mexico along with proposed interchange locations, relief routes, frontage roads, roadway cross-sections, and a phased implementation strategy.

WHERE IS THE STUDY AREA LOCATED?

Figure 1. Study Area Map (click to enlarge image).

WHY IS THIS STUDY NEEDED?

The purpose of the proposed project is to establish a safe, reliable, and efficient interstate-standard connection between Interstate 25 (I-25) near Raton and the Texas state line as part of the I-27 system.

Improving this corridor will support regional and interstate travel, accommodate existing and future passenger and freight needs, enhance roadway safety and strengthen economic opportunities in northeastern New Mexico and surrounding communities.

The study will evaluate feasible interstate-standard alternatives while considering community access, agricultural operations, environmental resources, and options for phased construction.

Photo 1. US 64/87 facing west at Mt. Dora (click to enlarge image).

GOALS & OBJECTIVES

Interstate System Connectivity

US 64/87 is the primary route between I-25 near Raton and Texas, but it does not currently function as a continuous interstate-standard facility connecting to existing I-27 in Texas.  Upgrades are needed to provide the required access control, design features, and connections for a future I-27 system.

Roadway Safety and Access Control

The existing corridor includes at grade intersections and direct property access, creating safety and operational conflicts. Improvements would be needed to separate traffic movements and meet interstate safety and design standards.

Photo 2. US 64/87 southeast of Des Moines, NM (click to enlarge image).

Freight Mobility and Interstate Travel Reliability

The corridor plays a key role in moving agricultural products, commercial freight, and other goods throughout the region. A continuous interstate standard route would be needed to support efficient freight movement and accommodate future transportation demands.

Regional Access and Community Connectivity

US 64/87 provides important access to communities such as Raton, Capulin, Des Moines, Grenville, Mount Dora, and Clayton. As an interstate standard facility is developed, it will be important to balance through traffic needs with appropriate local access.

Long-Term Transportation System Development

The 2022 federal designation of I-27 establishes a long term vision for the corridor. Upgrades will be needed to support that future function, meet interstate requirements, and serve growing passenger and freight needs.