NEW MEXICO DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
GUIDING PRINCIPLES

Our Guiding Principles integrate and advance the business practices of the New Mexico Department of Transportation. These principles support the direction of Governor Bill Richardson, and they represent a fundamental change in our Department. While the specific language for each principle will be refined over time, we will be consistent in our commitment to these seven principles.  

Multimodal Transportation

We are committed to the principle of a multimodal transportation system. We are committed to developing accessible, connected and sustainable multimodal opportunities for all citizens, which allow travel choices making the most efficient use of the State's transportation infrastructure. The Department will combine multimodal infrastructure development with current infrastructure preservation in a manner that best serves the mobility of residents, guests and commerce.

Partnership with Tribal Governments

We are committed to the principle of partnership with tribal governments. Our Department recognizes, respects and supports the unique sovereign status of the tribes and pueblos in New Mexico. We will be a national leader in developing government-to-governments relations on all matters of transportation in a consultative manner that is respectful of each tribe's culture and traditions.

Partnership with Local Governments

We are committed to the principle of partnership with local governments. Our Department appreciates the vital role of local government decision-making and delivery of transportation services that improve transportation in our cities, counties and throughout New Mexico. By working together, we can attract additional funds and further improve mobility and connectivity for the people we serve.

Environmental Responsibility

We are committed to the principle of an environmentally responsible transportation system. Our Department prepared the "Commitment to Environmental and Energy Action," to support thoughtful stewardship of the environment and development of alternative energy sources for this and future generations. For our actions to be successful, we will seek the guidance and involvement of similarly committed non-governmental organizations representing our diverse population, and the broad-based support of the people of New Mexico. We will work together to realize the funding required for New Mexico to serve as a national example of environmentally responsible and accountable transportation.

Safety and Security

We are committed to the principle of safe and secure transportation. We need to invest in transportation that is safe and secure. Transportation has a critical role in homeland security. We must attract funding to address challenging security issues related to the efficient movement of goods and people, while also ensuring the security of our international border. This effort will build from and expand upon our Department's current safety and security partnerships.

Efficient Use of Public Resources

Weare committed to the principle of efficient and effective use of public resources provided by the people to improve transportation in New Mexico. Our Department will optimize the amount of resources that go to transportation facilities and services. Our Department will compete for all applicable federal, discretionary programs in order to maximize the funds available to meet New Mexico's transportation needs. We will explore all opportunities for public/private partnerships in providing transportation services and facilities, and we will assess these opportunities based on our principles. Our Department will study alternatives to existing fuel taxes as long-term sources of revenue, to help ensure stable program financing as transportation technologies change. Our Department will coordinate with other agencies and governments to optimize the resources available to meet the transportation needs of New Mexico and our Nation.

Economic Vitality

We are committed to the principle of transportation supporting the economic vitality of New Mexico and our Nation. Transportation investment is important for the economic growth of our State, improving movement of goods and services within New Mexico, and attracting visitors and major investment. New Mexico is also a bridge state, connecting our Nation. A significant portion of our Nation's economy moves over our roads and rail. New Mexico is critical to freight movement across America today, and our role increases with every increase in freight movement. New Mexico requires increased infrastructure investment. We will work with organizations committed to making sure transportation resources fully support the key role of New Mexico in our Nation's economy.

These Guiding Principles help integrate our Department's diverse activities. Each principle is important. Together, they are the business principles of our Department.

The principles are dynamic. We will refine and implement them. As Cabinet Secretary, I can make one guarantee about our Department. We will listen first, and then we will act together.