Drivers in the South Valley are advised to prepare for detours as a major transportation upgrade will temporarily close a key intersection next week.
The intersection of Rio Bravo Boulevard and Second Street SE will be shut down from Tuesday, June 18, through Saturday, June 22, as crews work to upgrade the existing railroad crossing.
The work is part of the Rio Bravo and Second Street Intersection Project, which aims to accommodate a new six-lane roadway and modernize infrastructure along this heavily traveled corridor.
The existing crossing will be replaced with a newly constructed, wider version that includes “quiet zone” safety enhancements, such as quad gates designed to prevent vehicles from crossing when a train is approaching.
“This intersection is part of a key route for all kinds of traffic—whether it’s people who live and work nearby, travelers heading to the airport, students and staff commuting to nearby campuses and those utilizing rail services,” said Rodrigo Eichwald, Engineering Program Manager for Bernalillo County. “With this project, we’re modernizing transportation to meet growing demand, while doing everything we can to minimize disruptions for those who rely on this busy corridor during construction.”
Rail and Transit Impacts
In addition to road closures, rail traffic will also be affected. The railroad crossing will be closed to trains from Friday, June 20 at 5 p.m. to Saturday, June 21 at 5 p.m. During this 24-hour shutdown:
- New Mexico Rail Runner service will be suspended between the Alvarado Transportation Center and the Belen station.
- Rio Metro will provide buses to serve all usual Rail Runner stops, including Downtown Albuquerque, Bernalillo County, Isleta Pueblo, Los Lunas and Belen.
- Amtrak will provide bus transportation between Gallup and Albuquerque for passengers on its Southwest Chief Trains 3 and 4.
- BNSF will halt freight operations between Albuquerque and Belen.
Traffic Detours in Place
With construction expected to run continuously, Bernalillo County officials encourage drivers to seek alternate routes.
A detour will direct motorists from Second Street to Woodward Road, which connects to Sunport Boulevard east of Broadway.
Broader Roadway Expansion Efforts
The railroad crossing upgrade is a key component of a larger infrastructure improvement plan that began in January.
The full project includes adding lanes along Rio Bravo from Barr Canal to east of Second Street and aligns with a separate effort that recently expanded the roadway to six lanes between Second Street and Prince Street.
When finished, these upgrades are expected to reduce traffic congestion, enhance safety and improve accessibility throughout the South Valley.
This diverse area includes residential neighborhoods, industrial districts and serves as a vital link to the Albuquerque International Sunport, the University of New Mexico and several entertainment venues.