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I-25/University Avenue Interchange Improvements Project is Awarded First Envision Rating for Sustainable Infrastructure in New Mexico
LAS CRUCES, NM — The I-25/University Avenue Interchange Improvements Project is the first infrastructure project in New Mexico to be awarded an Envision Rating. This $35-million project, which began in January 2020 and finalized in October 2021, was a joint initiative between the New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT), the City of Las Cruces, New Mexico State University (NMSU), and other local stakeholders.
"The NMDOT's 2040 Long Range Plan highlighted mobility and sustainability as key goals for future project development," said Sherri Holliefield, PE, NMDOT South Region Design Manager. "However, we had no tool to measure sustainable design or construction practices. We were introduced to Envision by our consultant and determined that we would utilize this tool to see how the process unfolded and if it would in fact deliver a more sustainable project. Every goal we set were met or exceeded in that regard."
The I-25/University Interchange serves as the main access point to several local communities and the NMSU campus, all of which have seen significant growth in recent years.
The purpose of this project was to:
Since its inception, sustainability has been a core focus of this project. Sustainability goals, including this project's pursuit of Envision verification, have been communicated to project and community stakeholders throughout its design and delivery phases. Ultimately, the Institute for Sustainable Infrastructure's independent, third-party project verification process awarded the project an Envision Silver rating. The rating recognizes the project's wide-ranging sustainability achievements in improving overall community quality of life, demonstrating leadership in sustainability, using resources efficiently, protecting the environment, and improving climate resilience.
Rocky Mountain Construction Projects"The NMDOT's 2040 Long Range Plan highlighted mobility and sustainability as key goals for future project development," said Sherri Holliefield, PE, NMDOT South Region Design Manager. "However, we had no tool to measure sustainable design or construction practices. We were introduced to Envision by our consultant and determined that we would utilize this tool to see how the process unfolded and if it would in fact deliver a more sustainable project. Every goal we set were met or exceeded in that regard."
The I-25/University Interchange serves as the main access point to several local communities and the NMSU campus, all of which have seen significant growth in recent years.
The purpose of this project was to:
- Add capacity to the I-25 southbound off-ramp at University Avenue
- Reduce congestion, weaving, and backups onto off-ramps
- Incorporate roundabouts to improve traffic flow
- Encourage multi-modal transportation options for cyclists and pedestrians
Since its inception, sustainability has been a core focus of this project. Sustainability goals, including this project's pursuit of Envision verification, have been communicated to project and community stakeholders throughout its design and delivery phases. Ultimately, the Institute for Sustainable Infrastructure's independent, third-party project verification process awarded the project an Envision Silver rating. The rating recognizes the project's wide-ranging sustainability achievements in improving overall community quality of life, demonstrating leadership in sustainability, using resources efficiently, protecting the environment, and improving climate resilience.