While the nation’s infrastructure earned a C- in the 2021 Infrastructure Report Card, New Mexico faces infrastructure challenges of its own. For example, driving on roads in need of repair in New Mexico costs each driver $767 per year, and 5.5% of bridges are rated structurally deficient. Drinking water needs in New Mexico are an estimated $1.4 billion. 219 dams are considered to be high-hazard potential. The state’s schools have an estimated capital expenditure gap of $407 million. This deteriorating infrastructure impedes New Mexico’s ability to compete in an increasingly global marketplace. Success in a 21st-century economy requires serious, sustained leadership on infrastructure investment at all levels of government. Delaying these investments only escalates the cost and risks of an aging infrastructure system, an option that the country, New Mexico, and families can no longer afford.
Aviation
$2.3 million in 2022 airport improvement grants across 10 major airports
Drinking Water
$1.4 billion total drinking water need
Transit
5.4 million passenger trips across 34 systems in 2021
Bridges
4,025 bridges, 5.2% of which were structurally deficient in 2021
Hazardous Waste
21 Superfund sites
Wastewater
$320 million total wastewater need
Dams
222 high hazard dams
Levees
122 miles of levees protect $11.2 billion of property.
Roads
56% of roads are in poor or fair condition.
Smart investment will only be possible with strong leadership, decisive action, and a clear vision for our nation’s infrastructure.
If the United States is serious about achieving an infrastructure system fit for the future some specific steps must be taken, beginning with increased, long-term, consistent investment.
We must utilize new approaches, materials, and technologies to ensure our infrastructure can withstand or quickly recover from natural or man-made hazards.
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