Santa Ana Pueblo Launches $2.4 Million Intersection Safety Improvement
Groundbreaking Ceremony Marks New Era for Traffic Safety
On December 17, 2025, Santa Ana Pueblo and the New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) celebrated the groundbreaking of a significant $2.4 million project aimed at enhancing the safety of the intersection at N.M. 313 (Route 66) and Dove Road. This initiative is designed to address long-standing safety concerns at the busy junction, which serves both tribal members and travelers along this historic route.
Project Details and Timeline
The construction is set to begin in January 2026 and is expected to take approximately 18 months to complete. The project includes the addition of a dedicated turning lane on Dove Road, which will facilitate safer access to and from the Pueblo. During the construction phase, traffic management will be overseen by local police officers to mitigate potential confusion and wrong-way driving incidents.
Addressing Safety Concerns
Acting Lt. Gov. Joe Montoya of Santa Ana Pueblo highlighted the intersection’s safety challenges, emphasizing the importance of this project not just for the Pueblo but for the surrounding communities as well. “It’s a huge concern,” Montoya stated, underscoring the risks faced by both residents and travelers. This project is part of a broader effort to improve safety on New Mexico’s roads, particularly as the state grapples with high rural road fatality rates, as noted in NMDOT data.
Community and Economic Impact
The collaboration between Santa Ana Pueblo and NMDOT is a striking example of how tribal and state governments can work together to enhance community infrastructure. Governor Myron Armijo remarked on the mutual benefits of the project, which not only aims to improve safety but also enhances economic access for the Pueblo’s businesses and visitors.
A Step Towards Modernization
The intersection project is part of a larger commitment by Santa Ana Pueblo to modernize its infrastructure while preserving its cultural heritage. As one of the 19 Pueblos in New Mexico, Santa Ana Pueblo, also known as Tamaya, has a rich history of over 1,000 years. The Pueblo strives to balance modernization efforts with the preservation of its Keresan-speaking traditions and sacred lands.
Broader Context of Infrastructure Development
This initiative aligns with the goals of the federal Tribal Transportation Program, which aims to address the infrastructure needs of tribal communities. Improved transportation routes are critical for supporting tourism and commerce within the Pueblos, while also enhancing emergency access. Projects like this one are essential in reducing traffic fatalities and improving overall road safety throughout the state, especially on historic routes such as Route 66.
