NMDOT launches roadside beautification program

The New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) is starting the first of three roadside beautification programs this week. NMDOT has contracted with two private companies for the first program.

According to KRQE, the companies started cleaning up a stretch of I-25 from La Bajada, south of Santa Fe, to Los Lunas on Monday, April 18. Another company will work on a stretch of I-25 from the Texas border. The contracts are paid for with the $10 million American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds approved by the state for roadside beautification.

“We know New Mexicans and out of state visitors are sick of the roadside litter plaguing our state. I can assure you, the NMDOT shares the same sentiment,” State Transportation Secretary Mike Sandoval said in a statement.

NMDOT has also renewed its partnership and contract with the New Mexico Corrections Department for roadside litter cleanup. The program will begin this summer and is paid for through state funding.

Another litter program will begin by the end of the summer, and will allow a private company to hire temporary workers to work in small groups with an NMDOT supervisor overseeing work. This program will be paid for with ARPA funds.