The New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) has announced the implementation of new safety enhancements along U.S. 180, following community input and ongoing safety evaluations aimed at improving public safety while maintaining traffic efficiency. These updates include a reduction of the posted speed between Arenas Valley and Silver City from 55 to 45 mph, as well as the installation of a “No Turn on Red” restriction for the right turn from NM 90 to U.S. 180 due to heavy traffic conditions. NMDOT will continue to monitor intersection operations and make signal timing adjustments as necessary.
Silver City has restored a full town council following the appointment of Angelina Salaiz to represent District 1. Ms. Salaiz was formally sworn in by Silver City Magistrate Judge D. Matthew Runnels and took her seat on the dais, marking the beginning of her service to the community. Ms. Salaiz is a lifelong resident of Silver City who is committed to strengthening neighborhood safety, promoting responsible and balanced growth, and advancing critical infrastructure improvements to support the town’s long-term vitality.
A small group of participants walked routes between downtown Silver City and the Western New Mexico University campus Tuesday to evaluate conditions that help or hinder pedestrian access. The effort is part of a $250,000 Rural Transportation, Innovation and Mobilities Equity grant from the Transportation Research Board, supported by state and federal transportation agencies and related organizations. The project focuses on understanding how people walk, bike, and travel between campus, downtown, and nearby trailheads, with the goal of recommending practical improvements for the town and university.
In New Mexico news:
The New Mexico Department of Health announced it will continue to uphold its full childhood vaccination recommendations, despite a recent decision by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to reduce the number of vaccines routinely recommended for all children. All childhood immunizations will remain covered through the Vaccines for Children Program, Medicaid, and private insurance, with no anticipated changes to vaccine availability across the state. New Mexicans seeking vaccinations are encouraged to contact their health care provider or call the NMDOH Helpline at 1-833-796-8773 for additional information.