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Raton receives $1 million to study proposed Texas–New Mexico interstate link
Federal funding will pay for studies, environmental review and preliminary design of a possible highway connection between Interstate 27 in Texas and Interstate 25 near Raton. Construction remains years away, and the proposal would upgrade the existing U.S. 87 route.
RATON, N.M. — A $1 million federal allocation will help Raton study a potential interstate connection between Texas and northern New Mexico, a project supporters say could improve freight access and bring more business to communities along the route.
The planning work will examine ways to connect Interstate 27 in Texas with Interstate 25 just south of the Colorado border, following the existing U.S. Highway 87 corridor. The funding is intended for studies, environmental review and preliminary design—not road construction—and a completed highway is likely years away.
The proposed link is part of the larger Ports-to-Plains Corridor, a planned trade route intended to connect agricultural and energy-producing areas in North America and support commerce with Mexico and Canada.
New Mexico officials have said a more reliable route could help farmers, ranchers and energy producers move goods to market, while bringing travelers and commerce to places including Raton and Clayton. Rep. Teresa Leger Fernández said in a statement that the investment could create opportunities for small businesses and jobs, and that she would continue seeking money to advance the project.
The federal funds were provided through the fiscal year 2026 appropriations process. The planning project will also consider development around the proposed highway connection, according to the funding description.
The $1 million advances the proposal’s early planning, but does not guarantee that the highway will be built or establish a construction timeline.