Oñate Bridge in Española to Remain Closed Until April or May 2026, State Officials Announce

The Oñate Bridge in Española, NM, will remain closed for at least four to five months, with a potential reopening in April or May 2026, pending necessary permits. The bridge, closed since June due to erosion and scouring around a pier, is vital for local traffic, causing significant congestion and impacting businesses.

The estimated cost for repairs is $1.8 million. Local officials, including DOT Secretary Ricky Serna and Mayor John Ramon Vigil, expressed concerns over the economic effects on the community. Business owners reported sales declines of up to 30% since the closure.

The state needs permits from the Army Corps of Engineers to proceed with repairs, which has been identified as a critical factor in the timeline. Mayor Vigil noted that while five months is significant, it is an improvement over worst-case scenarios of years for reopening.