Valencia County officials announced Thursday that the River Bridge on New Mexico State Road 309, which carries traffic between Belen and the Rio Communities, is closed indefinitely because of persistent flooding and damage to the roadway.

Safety warning and detour guidance

The county’s public‑works department emphasized that the bridge is unsafe for vehicles and pedestrians. “Do not attempt to cross the bridge, turn around and find an alternate route,” the statement read. Drivers are reminded to stay clear of the water, as the creek’s current remains strong and can quickly become dangerous.

Impact on local travel

The closure affects daily commuters, school buses, and commercial traffic that rely on NM 309 as a primary north‑south corridor. Residents of Belen, Rio Communities and surrounding rural areas are being directed to use nearby state highways, such as NM 14 and US 84, to bypass the flooded section.

Local law‑enforcement officers have been stationed at the bridge entrances to help motorists navigate the detour and to prevent anyone from attempting to cross the compromised structure.

What caused the flooding?

Recent heavy rains have swollen San Lorenzo Creek, overwhelming the bridge’s drainage capacity. County engineers reported that the water has eroded the bridge’s approach embankments and exposed the substructure, making it unsafe for any load.

While the flooding is a natural event, officials noted that the region’s infrastructure is being tested by increasingly volatile weather patterns. The county plans to assess the bridge’s condition once water levels recede and to prioritize repairs in the upcoming public‑works budget.

Future steps and community response

Valencia County commissioners have scheduled an emergency meeting next week to discuss funding options for the bridge repair and to explore longer‑term flood‑mitigation measures for the San Lorenzo Creek corridor.

Community members expressed concern over the inconvenience but praised the swift action taken by county officials to close the bridge before any accidents occurred. “We appreciate the county putting safety first,” said one local resident.

The county will continue to provide updates as the situation evolves and as repair plans are finalized.

Original reporting: KOAT Albuquerque — read the source article.