For Immediate Release
October 13, 2023
Sandoval/Santa Fe County, NM – State police have seen an increase in motor vehicle crashes, aggressive and distracted drivers, and other unsafe driving conditions along the construction zone on La Bajada Hill. In response to this growing trend of dangerous driving behavior, New Mexico State Police Chief Troy Weisler ordered additional officers to patrol the construction zone on La Bajada Hill.
Interstate 25 at La Bajada Hill has been undergoing extensive slope mitigation construction and repair since 2022. During construction, motorists have experienced lane narrowing and traffic flow changes.
“The New Mexico State Police have worked closely with the New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) since the beginning of the construction project on La Bajada Hill to create the safest conditions possible”, said Chief Weisler. “It has become evident in recent months that our strategy needs to evolve. The safety of the NMDOT and construction workers, the motoring public, and those traveling through our beautiful state are a top priority for the New Mexico State Police.”
This traffic operation will focus on stopping and issuing citations to drivers who continue to drive above the posted speed limit, drive aggressively, drive distracted, follow too closely, and any other dangerous driving behaviors observed by officers.
This operation will continue through the completion of the construction project. For inquiries on the progress or specifics of the construction project, please contact NMDOT.
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