Major Policy win to begin 2026

SANTA FE, N.M. (February 5, 2026) — Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham signed the $1.5 billion State Highway Project Bonds bill (SB2) today, highlighting the growing demand and support for predictable and stable funding for New Mexico's state roads and highways projects, matching funds with the federal government, and maintenance needs. 

Bob Wood, of Albuquerque Asphalt, stood as representative for APANM joined the Governor at today's signing ceremony. 

The bill will not only help create safer roads, but it will also help boost the state's overall economy. Companies hesitant to expand into the state due to its infrastructure will now be at ease, and road workers who have previously had to leave New Mexico to find other jobs can now return home.

"We would like to thank Governor Lujan Grisham for prioritizing the road bonding bill," said Dan Lewis, Executive Director of the Asphalt Pavement Association of New Mexico. "New Mexico is one step closer to safer, more reliable roads."

Earlier this year, the 2025 TRIP Report found that the state has over $7 billion in unfunded but needed road projects. The report also details the additional $3.3 billion New Mexico drivers pay annually due to congested and declining roads. 

"This is a huge win for all of our state's drivers," said Wood. "Our contractors and workers are ready to get started on the many projects we have lined up."

Last year, a similar bonding bill was passed by the House but died on the Senate floor on the last day of session. This left NMDOT with only $60 million just for basic maintenance, barely enough to divide among the districts.

"This bill would not have been possible without Senator Roberto Gonzales who carried the bill as well as the co-sponsors Senator Muñoz, Senator Campos, Senator Shendo Jr., and Representative Art de la Cruz," said Lewis. "Without this bill, our roads would continue to deteriorate and create even more safety concerns for New Mexicans." 

The road construction industry has put forward a request embodied in HB3 for a special appropriation to augment the bonding bill with additional funds for local road construction and maintenance.