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NMDOT Urges Drivers to Stay Alert as Work Zone Awareness Week Begins

Victoria Padilla
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The New Mexico Department of Transportation issued recommendations on how to behave in the construction zone, aiming to promote Work zone safety in New Mexico. The New Mexico Department of Transportation released safety recommendations for drivers entering construction zones. The agency shared the reminder ahead of National Work Zone Awareness Week, which runs from April 20 to April 24. In other news, there has been a New Mexico disease alert recently. Notably, officials want the public to stay updated since the New Mexico disease alert may influence travel and safety in the region. Its main aim is to promote road safety among drivers and workers in the road construction area.

This means there are likely to be more orange cones and warning signs seen on highways. Additionally, these warnings emphasize Work zone safety in New Mexico for motorists and workers alike. Meanwhile, health officials continue to monitor changes associated with New Mexico disease alert status for any updates that could affect travelers.

This year’s slogan is “Safe actions save lives.” This means a motorist may avoid a collision by slowing down and paying attention to road signs, which is essential for Work zone safety in New Mexico. Importantly, the latest disease alert from New Mexico further underscores the need for added caution in affected areas.

Transportation department representatives stress that a construction zone is dangerous not only for workers but also for motorists. During the last year, several incidents happened in construction zones in New Mexico, resulting in serious injuries to the victims. Effective Work zone safety in New Mexico is therefore crucial to prevent these incidents. Also, pay attention to any updates, especially if a disease alert has been issued in New Mexico, when planning your route.

Cabinet Secretary in Charge of Acting David D. Quintana asked the motorists to be more accountable when behind the wheel. This year’s campaign theme is “Safe actions save lives.” The message reminds drivers to reduce speed and follow posted signs in construction areas. Careful driving can help prevent crashes and injuries. Furthermore, it’s vital to monitor any New Mexico disease alert developments as they might impact travel plans and safety measures.

Transportation officials stress that work zones pose risks for both workers and motorists. Several incidents occurred in construction areas across New Mexico during the past year. For travelers, being aware of any ongoing disease alert related to New Mexico is also crucial for safe journeys. Some of those crashes caused serious injuries.

Health Department Issues Alert After Disease Case Detected Through Surveillance System

Victoria Padilla
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A public health alert was issued by the New Mexico Department of Health following the identification of a disease in its surveillance system. Therefore, the New Mexico disease alert was triggered by these findings. The alert was sent on April 17, 2026, following notification activities earlier in the month.

This is done through the state of New Mexico’s electronic disease surveillance system. The New Mexico disease alert system tracks disease reports across various healthcare facilities.

An alert will be issued once the disease report is confirmed. In such scenarios, the use of the alert system will help coordinate healthcare facilities if additional cases are reported from the community. Authorities refer to this process as the New Mexico Disease Alert Protocol.

During such events, the Department of Health’s alert system helps with testing, reporting, and disease prevention. This ensures that medical professionals can monitor symptoms and report other cases, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of the procedures.

Reporting one’s illness during such times will be beneficial because it helps contain the spread of disease. Currently, health authorities are investigating the issue.

State Nurse Honored Excellence Award for Expanding HIV Prevention Care

Victoria Padilla
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At ceremonies held in both Roswell and Las Cruces, New Mexico, the New Mexico Department of Health acknowledged the exemplary contributions of nurse Gina Fullbright in providing HIV prevention services.

Firstly, the organization publicly announced the recognition on April 17, 2026, in acknowledgment of Fulbright’s commitment to community health.

The program awards nurses who demonstrate exemplary leadership and patient-focused care. Specifically, the program rewards healthcare professionals who make an effort to enhance service delivery in their communities.

Nurse Fullbright won the Nursing Excellence Award for her contributions to HIV prevention programs in her local community.

Additionally, healthcare professionals recommended Fullbright for the award because of her dedication and strong leadership skills.

Consequently, the recognition reflects Fulbright’s significant contribution to HIV prevention campaigns.

New Mexico Gubernatorial Race Heats Up with 5 Contenders and New Voting Access for Independents

Juan Oliveros
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New Mexico Gubernatorial Race Heats Up with 5 Contenders and New Voting Access for Independents

Five candidates from the Democratic and Republican parties are competing for their spots in New Mexico’s gubernatorial race as the open primary is set on June 2, 2026, and new rules allow voters not affiliated with major parties to participate.

Political analyst Brian Sanderoff said this year’s race is notable for very competitive primaries in both major parties, which is a rarity in recent decades.

“This election cycle, for the first time since 1994, we have a contested Democratic primary and a contested Republican primary for governor,” Sanderoff told KOAT on April 16. “Hopefully that’ll bolster turnout. Oftentimes in the primaries, the gubernatorial candidate runs unopposed.”

Primary winners from each party will face off in the general election on November 2.

An independent gubernatorial candidate, former Las Cruces mayor Ken Miyagishima, will skip the primaries and go straight to the general election ballot on November 2. He withdrew from the Democratic primary in February.

New voting dynamics gubernatorial race

The open primary could reshape turnout, especially among New Mexico’s substantial bloc of independent voters.

As of March 31, 2026, New Mexico reported 573,554 registered Democrats; 443,598 registered Republicans; and 371,380 registered independent voters, according to the New Mexico Secretary of State’s voter registration statistics.

Sanderoff said the new rules allowing independents to vote without changing affiliation could significantly influence both party contests. “For the first time, unaffiliated or independent voters will be allowed to vote in the Democratic or Republican primary without having to change registration,” he said.

The new rules expanding the participation of independent voters stem from the “Non-Major Party Voters in Primary Elections” law signed in April 2025 by Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham. The law allows voters not affiliated with major parties — including those registered as Decline-to-State — to vote in either the Democratic or Republican primary without requiring them to switch party registration.

Bernalillo County Clerk Michelle Kavanaugh said early participation in the primary is crucial. Kavanaugh warned that skipping the primary effectively leaves the decision to others.

“If you choose not to participate in the primary, you’re allowing other voters to decide who gets onto that general election ballot,” Kavanaugh said. “Don’t let other people make that choice for you.”

Gubernatorial contenders

Democrats:

  • Bernalillo County District Attorney Sam Bregman
  • Former U.S. Interior Secretary Deb Haaland

Republicans:

  • Rio Rancho Mayor Greg Hull
  • Business owner Doug Turner
  • Former state cabinet secretary and cannabis executive Duke Rodriguez

The June 2 primary will determine who will advance to the general election in November.

Pedestrian Dies in Santa Fe Crash; DUI Suspected in Driver’s Arrest

Juan Oliveros
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Pedestrian Dies in Santa Fe Crash; DUI Suspected in Driver’s Arrest

A pedestrian died after being hit by a vehicle in an early-morning crash on Saturday, April 19, prompting authorities to arrest the driver for suspected driving under the influence.

The Santa Fe Police Traffic Unit said the crash incident happened around 2:05 a.m. near the intersection of Agua Fria Street and Cottonwood Drive in Santa Fe. Officers from Patrol Team C and the DWI Unit immediately responded to reports of an incident involving a vehicle and a pedestrian. Upon arrival at the scene, police and paramedics found the driver of the vehicle and an injured pedestrian.

Paramedics of Sta Fe Fire Department rushed the victim to a local hospital, but the victim later died from injuries sustained in the crash. Authorities said they did not divulge the victim’s identity pending notification of next of kin.

The driver, identified as Ana Reyes, 23, of Santa Fe, did not have any injuries and remained at the scene. Police said responding officers observed signs of impairment and suspected Reyes was driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Following an investigation, the police arrested Reyes and charged her with homicide by vehicle for allegedly driving under the influence of intoxicating liquor or drugs.

Traffic investigators and crime scene personnel processed the area for evidence. Officers investigating the crash continue to conduct interviews related to the case.

Following the incident, authorities closed Agua Fria Street from Dominguez Lane to Cottonwood Drive for a traffic investigation. The road was reopened later to normal traffic.

Authorities said the investigation remains ongoing. The police urged anyone who witnessed the crash or has relevant information to contact Detective Andrea Gonzales at (505) 955-5330.

Santa Fe Fest Keeps Lifelines for Immigrants Strong with Monthly Giving

Juan Oliveros
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Santa Fe Fest Keeps Lifelines for Immigrants Strong with Monthly Giving

Building sustainable resources for immigrants grabbed the spotlight as local businesses partnered with Contigo Immigrant Justice (CIJ) to host Todos Juntos Fest. The event brought together community members who explored local vendors, accessed immigrant support resources, and joined music-filled activities led by a live DJ.

Held across venues including Zendo Coffee, Side Track Brewing Company, and Flyby Provisions on Saturday, the fest, a grassroots initiative, aims to link neighbors to support services and sustained giving opportunities.

At the heart of the initiative is a push for predictable, monthly contributions that, according to organizers, are key to sustaining legal aid and other essential services for immigrants, particularly those with limited access to support systems.

“Knowing how much money we have every month is really helpful in creating sustainable resources for immigrants in the community,” said Ben Rose, community engagement manager of Contigo Immigrant Justice. “It’s about building a strong community in support of immigrants.”

The organization officially rebranded from Santa Fe Dreamers Project to Contigo Immigrant Justice in 2025. It has spent over a decade advocating for immigrant communities, with programs focused on legal assistance, education, and grassroots organizing.

What the Future Holds: Students Learn More About Careers 

Gregg Morgan
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What the Future Holds: Students Learn More About Careers 

Curious about future careers? Cibola High School students just explored them.

More than 320 ninth graders turned out for Cibola’s inaugural Freshman Career Fair on April 15. The school held the career fair in its concourse. It partnered with Albuquerque Hispano Chamber of Commerce as part of the Albuquerque Public School’s (APS) Freshman Academies initiative. 

“This is our third and final Freshman Academies Career Fair of the year,’ said Melodee Saiz, APS Business Community Liaison for Career and Technical Education and Career Connected Learning. “We started the year with Highland High School, then went on to Manzano, and now we’re at Cibola.” 

Saiz said she was hired to “build new relationships, get our community involved … and truly build those partnerships.” She has been with APS for two and a half years. 

Freshman Academies are designed to move away from traditional classroom models toward team-based, career-oriented environments for ninth graders. Programs currently operate at Cibola, Highland, and Manzano high schools. APS plans to expand the initiative to six additional high schools next year.

Inside the Career Fair

Cibola’s Freshman Career Fair featured a diverse mix of community businesses and organizations. Participants include UNM Colleges of Engineering, Pharmacy, and Architecture & Planning; Presbyterian Hospital; Sage Truck Driving Schools; and even Por Vida Tattoo.

Erik Contreras, Director of Community and Business Development for the Hispano Chamber of Commerce, enthusiastically highlighted the importance of community initiatives.

“The Hispano Chamber has over 1,400 members, and we focus on education and economic development,” he said. “We thought we’d help make an impact for the schools. It’s really about helping the kids early on to get on a career path.”    

Presbyterian Hospital offered one of the most popular career options. Table organizers led an interactive activity for freshmen. Organizers arranged six CPR manikins in a circle as a team leader guided students through CPR compression exercises.  

The Career Expo focused on careers of the future. For Cibola freshman Michael Jaramillo, it was an opportunity to add another practical skill, like CPR, to his current toolbox.

“It’s nice to know that, in case something happens to somebody you know, you can help them because now you know how to do it,” he said.

Trail Town Pride: Santa Fe Earns IMBA Nod; Governor Commits to Expanding Outdoor Opportunities

Juan Oliveros
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Trail Town Pride: Santa Fe Earns IMBA Nod; Governor Commits to Expanding Outdoor Opportunities

Santa Fe is one of 28 communities across 20 US states to receive the inaugural “Trail Town” designation, the International Mountain Bicycling Association announced. The designation marks a national recognition of the city’s leadership in trail development and outdoor recreation.

Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham hailed the designation. The governor pointed to Santa Fe’s more than 500 miles of world-class mountain biking trails. Sta Fe, she said, has the reputation as a year-round destination for riders and outdoor enthusiasts.

Lujan Grisham reiterated her administration’s commitment to expanding outdoor opportunities for all New Mexicans. She emphasized that increased access to trails, parks, and open spaces helps create healthier communities, stronger environmental awareness, and a more inclusive outdoor recreation economy.

The designation honors communities with strong trail infrastructure, active local trail organizations, sustained funding, and a culture of community engagement. These criteria, IMBA said, promote healthier lifestyles, environmental stewardship, and broader access to outdoor spaces.

“IMBA Trail Towns represent communities that understand the powerful role trails play in shaping vibrant places to live, work, and play,” said Jillian Olson, IMBA Community Progress Manager. Olson said such investments also help attract visitors, support local businesses, and strengthen community ties.

The IMBA recognition comes as the US outdoor recreation sector continues to grow. In 2024, the outdoor recreation sector generated $1.3 trillion worth of economic activity, supported 5.2 million jobs, and accounted for 2.4 percent of the country’s GDP.

IMBA said the Trail Town honorees are setting the bar on how trail systems can drive sustainable growth, boost local economies, and enhance quality of life.

Santa Fe Deputy Shoots and Kills Armed Man at Dawn

Ruben Reyes
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New Mexico State Police say a Santa Fe County sheriff’s deputy shot and killed a 36-year-old man after he fired at the deputy.

According to NMSP, the shooting happened April 18 after a deputy tried to stop a motorcycle for speeding near Agua Fria and San Felipe at around 4 A.M.

The police say the motorcycle fled. Later, the deputy saw the same motorcycle on a bike near the Vista Linda Apartments at 6332 Entrada Del Milagro.

Investigators say the rider went into the apartment complex parking lot and tried to get away through a corridor toward Paseo Del Sol.

The deputy turned on emergency lights, got out, and chased him on foot, got out and chased him on foot.

State police say the deputy caught up to the rider and pushed both him and the motorcycle to the ground.

During the encounter, investigators say the man pulled a gun and fired at the deputy but missed. The deputy strike back and hit the suspect.

Response and Investigators

Backup deputies gave aid until emergency crews arrived, according to NMSP. They say the man died from his injuries despite lifesaving efforts.

The police identified him as a 36-year-old Randall Brian Lopez.

Meanwhile, the deputy was not hit by gunfire however he got burns to the face that were consistent with muzzle flash, according to investigators.

According to them, someone stole Lopez’s gun, and Lopez had a lengthy and violent criminal history that included prior charges of first-degree murder, armed robbery, kidnapping, aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, concealing identity, and resisting or evading an officer.

The New Mexico State Police Investigations Bureau is still investigating and won’t disclose the deputy’s name at this time.

Citizens are Now Closer To Lawmakers, New Legislative Office Opens in Albuquerque

Ruben Reyes
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A new legislative office opened in Albuquerque, giving unpaid lawmakers a place to meet people to hear concerns about the community.

The grand opening of the office received great support as New Mexico is the only state in the country that does not pay it legislative members.

The new office gives people a place to meet lawmakers and talk about their concern in their respective community.

Rep. Yanira Gurrola says this office and dozen others around the state gives legislators a chance to connect with people.

“It’s a close place. We work in Santa Fe one time a year and then nobody knows where we are. So this is where they can come find us,” said Yanira Gurrola.

People can find Gurrola and Eleanor Chávez at the new office is on Albuquerque’s Westside at 201 Unser Boulevard NW.

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