By Organ Mountain News on Aug 4, 2026

Work begins on NM 26 ‘Hatch shortcut’ between Deming and Hatch

Drivers using NM 26 between Deming and Hatch should expect daytime delays as an 85-working-day pavement and safety project begins Aug. 4.

Roads Travel Transportation State Local News

Drivers using NM 26 between Deming and Hatch should expect daytime lane closures and pilot-car operations as a $2.6 million pavement and safety project continues through late October. (Alex / Unsplash)

The $2.6 million project will bring daytime lane closures and pilot-car operations through late October

Organ Mountain News report

DEMING - Drivers using NM 26 as a shortcut between Deming and Hatch should prepare for daytime lane closures and pilot-car operations as a $2.6 million pavement and roadway safety project gets underway.

Work was expected to begin Tuesday, Aug. 4, near US 180 outside Deming and progress east toward Hatch, New Mexico Department of Transportation District 1 spokesperson Ami Evans said.

The project covers NM 26 from mile marker 0 near Deming to mile marker 46 in Hatch. It is scheduled to take 85 working days, with completion expected near the end of October.

Crews will begin with crack sealing, followed by installation of centerline rumble strips, fog sealing and restriping of the entire roadway.

The centerline rumble strips are being installed through NMDOT’s Target Zero initiative to help prevent head-on and crossover crashes by alerting drivers who drift across the centerline.

Work is scheduled from 6:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday, with weekend work possible as needed.

Motorists should expect daytime lane closures and pilot-car operations in both directions. Reduced speed limits will be in effect through the work zone.

NMDOT urged drivers to slow down, obey traffic-control devices and use caution around workers and equipment.

Hasse Contracting Co. Inc. is the contractor for the project.

Updated road conditions are available at nmroads.com or by calling 511.

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