Raton, NM — The City of Raton announced that it has been awarded $4,673,000 through the federal Congressionally Directed Spending process, recently approved by Congress and signed into law by the President of the United States.
The awards announced on February 23, 2026 include:
1. Raton Crews Field Municipal Airport Apron Project — $2,073,000, supported by U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich.
2. Ports-to-Plains Corridor Interstate Planning – Raton I-27 / I-25 Interchange Alignment Study — $1,600,000, supported by U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich and U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján, plus another $1,000,000 in additional support from U.S. Representative Teresa Leger Fernández.
The I-27 / I-25 Interchange Alignment Study will support the City’s work in the Ports-to-Plains Corridor Interstate Planning process by evaluating alignment options through Raton and helping position northeastern New Mexico for future corridor investments.
Raton Mayor Lori M. Chatterley gave appreciation to Raton’s congressional delegation, noting the importance of federal partners in ensuring rural communities remain part of nationally significant infrastructure planning. She stated, “Raton is grateful for the leadership and support of Senators Heinrich and Luján and Representative Leger Fernández in helping our community compete for and secure these resources. Advocacy for these transportation projects is vital to the future of our community and the entire region. 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.”
Senator Heinrich’s Office noted, “This year, our office received almost 500 projects from New Mexicans and selected over 300 to submit to the Senate Appropriations Committee for review… We were immensely impressed by the projects received and are inspired by all the amazing work happening throughout the state.”
These projects were included in the FY 2026 Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development (THUD) appropriations bill.
Airport Apron Improvements (Raton Crews Field Municipal Airport):
This project will reconstruct and rehabilitate critical apron pavement where aircraft park, load, and refuel, improving safety and operational efficiency at Raton Crews Field. The work addresses needs identified in a 2021 review, including the replacement of Apron A, which is in critical condition, and improvements to Apron B, which is in serious condition.
Ports-to-Plains / I-27–I-25 Interchange Alignment Study:
The City will conduct an interchange alignment study to evaluate options for the future I-27 / I-25 connection to Raton as part of the broader Ports-to-Plains planning effort. The study will assess transportation needs, traffic and safety considerations, and potential constraints to inform future investment and improve regional connectivity and freight movement.
The city will coordinate with state and federal partners on project implementation timelines, procurement requirements, and opportunities for public updates and community engagement as planning and design move forward.
Media Contact
City of Raton
Attn: Neil Segotta
Email: NSegotta@cityofraton.com
Phone: (575) 445-9551
https://www.ratonnm.gov
Located in northeastern New Mexico, the City of Raton serves as a regional hub at the New Mexico-Colorado border and is committed to improving infrastructure, strengthening economic opportunity, and building a safer, more connected community.
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