March 2nd, 2026KRCC: Millions in federal dollars will help Raton advance a potential interstate connection between Texas and northern New Mexico

More than $2.6 million in federal funds will help Raton plan for apotential interstate connection between Texas and northern New Mexico.
The proposed Ports-to-Plains Corridor would connect Interstate 27 in northern Texas with Interstate 25 in Raton. The city will use the federal dollars to study traffic, safety and various options for a future interchange there, along with considering potential challenges, too.
Additionally, another $2 million will help make critical pavement repairs at Raton Municipal Airport/Crews Field in areas where aircraft park, load, and refuel.
Both awards were allocated in the federal 2026 Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development appropriations bill and were supported by New Mexico U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich and Ben Ray Luján and U.S. Representative Teresa Leger Fernández.
In a press release announcing the awards, Raton’s mayor, Lori M. Chatterley, said, “The I-27 Ports-to-Plains corridor represents a transformative opportunity to strengthen transportation infrastructure, improve safety, and expand economic development opportunities for northeastern New Mexico.”