NMDOT I-25 Raton Pass Roadway Improvements

NV5 provided environmental services for the reconstruction of I-25 from Exit 454 north of Raton to Exit 460 at the Colorado state line. The project included rehabilitation of the Exit 454 interchange, reconstruction of the Exit 460 interchange, drainage improvements, and rockfall mitigation. The change in elevation and steep slopes made this a challenging project. NV5 prepared the environmental sections of the Phase 1-A/B report, coordinated public involvement, and prepared a public involvement-context sensitive solutions plan. NV5 organized three public meetings, including preparation of meeting notices, handouts, and meeting summaries. NV5 conducted biological and cultural resource field surveys. Fieldwork was conducted in a mountainous area with steep slopes and potential for rockfall. A biological evaluation and cultural resource report were prepared. NV5 provided recommendations on wildlife fencing locations and development of a wildlife crossing point though concrete box culverts under I-25 based on movement patterns of mule deer and black bear. NV5 prepared a categorical exclusion that included a project description, identification of project impacts, and mitigation measures. Approval of the categorical exclusion allowed the project to proceed to final design and construction.