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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.