Las Cruces/El Paso Region Transportation Summit

Presented by Harry Teague, the Las Cruces MPO and the El Paso MPO

Southern New Mexico and far west Texas are rapidly growing areas in the the southwest United States.  This growth is enhancing the interdependence between Las Cruces and El Paso.  Accompanying the rapid growth is the need for a safe and efficient multimodal transportation system that provides access and mobility for all users.  This transportation system must connect people with each other, goods and services, education, and recreational opportunities.

Las Cruces also sits at the crossroads of three major cross-continental routes: I-10, I-25, and US 70.  These routes provide vital connections to move tons of freight each year.  In addition to these roadways, improvement of rail connections are also poised to raise the national importance of this region.

The Las Cruces-El Paso corridor also presents challenges for commuters between the two cities, including workers and students.  The Gold Route - in operation since September 2009 - offers an important public transportation option.  However, the operation of a commuter rail line, RailRunner, between Albuquerque and Santa Fe has increased interest in developing similar service in southern New Mexico.

The Transportation Summit will:

• Examine the strides that southern New Mexico and far west Texas have taken to improve all transportation modes
• Outline the current transportation issues and needs existing in the region