The roads behind the roads
A lot of Placitas is reached by private roads: shared easements off NM-165, subdivision roads maintained by the residents, and long lanes that serve a handful of homes. The same is true around Madrid, Cerrillos and Golden. When nobody owns the road, nobody fixes it — until it gets bad enough that the neighbors get together. That's usually when we get the call.
Shape first, surface second
The most important part of a private road isn't the surface, it's the shape:
- Crown — a high center so water runs to the sides instead of down the middle.
- Ditches — somewhere for that water to go, with rock check dams on steeper grades.
- Crossings — culverts or reinforced low-water crossings where the road crosses an arroyo. See culverts and crossings.
- Turnouts — room for two vehicles to pass and for delivery and emergency trucks.
Surfaces
| Surface | Where it fits |
|---|---|
| Hot-mix asphalt | Steep sections, busier roads, curves |
| Chip seal | Long, moderate grades with light traffic |
| Recycled millings | Budget upgrade from dirt; flatter stretches |
Most roads end up as a mix — asphalt on the steep pitches, chip seal elsewhere.
Paying for it together
We price the whole road and break it out by section or by lot so neighbors can split it fairly. Phasing over two seasons is an option. If your road has a formal association, our road association guide covers planning and budgeting.
Questions & answers
Can we split the cost between owners?
Yes. We give one price for the road with a breakdown by section or lot.
Does the county maintain our road?
Many roads in Placitas and the Turquoise Trail area are private. If you're not sure, check with Sandoval or Santa Fe County before planning work.
Do we need everyone to agree?
That depends on your easement or association documents. We can provide a written proposal to share with all owners.