12/31/2025
US 285 Rio Felix Bridge construction to begin Monday
$2.35M investment in bridge repairs and structural improvements
EDDY COUNTY – After over a year of closure caused by flooding damage, construction to repair and strengthen the Rio Felix Bridge on US 285 will begin January 5, 2026, at milepost 88 south of Roswell.
The $2.35 million bridge improvement project will add structural support, replace bridge railings, and rebuild the southbound bridge approach to address damage sustained during flooding events and improve long-term safety and reliability.
“We appreciate the public’s patience as design plans were finalized and now, we can move into the construction phase,” said Francisco Sanchez, NMDOT District 2 Engineer. “These improvements are critical to restoring the bridge’s long-term safety and reliability following the extensive, and often unseen, damage caused by the flooding.”
Construction will take place Monday through Friday, from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. This project is expected to be completed by late April 2026, weather permitting.
During construction, the current lane closures will remain in place for both northbound and southbound traffic on the northbound lanes, and the speed limit will be reduced to 35 mph during the duration of the project.
Motorists are reminded to use caution, reduce their speed, watch for workers in the work zone, and to plan travel accordingly.
Hasse Contracting has been contracted to complete the work.
The New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) remains committed to the safety of the traveling public and thanks you for your cooperation during this work. For updated information, visit www.nmroads.com or dial 511.