Santa Fe Standard

Public safety agencies across Northern New Mexico have come together to support the annual Good Friday Pilgrimage to the Santuario de Chimayó. This event, attracting over 30,000 pilgrims seeking spiritual renewal, is scheduled to take place from April 17 to April 20, 2025. To ensure public safety, the Santa Fe County Fire Department, Santa Fe County Office of Emergency Management, and the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office, along with 29 regional agencies, have established coordinated safety measures for the pilgrimage.

Motorists should be prepared for potential delays on major routes, such as Highway 84/285, NM Highway 503, Juan Medina Road, and State Road 76 from Espanola to Chimayó due to the influx of pilgrims. Enhanced traffic patrols will be implemented by law enforcement bodies including the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office, New Mexico State Police, and other local police departments, alongside the Bureau of Indian Affairs and Santa Fe County Animal Control. Firefighters from various departments will also be present to ensure safety.

Participants in the pilgrimage are advised to plan carefully due to anticipated traffic congestion. "Considering traffic congestion, consider developing a pre-planned route, check-in locations, and pre-arranged pick-up and drop-off points," officials recommend. The guidelines also stress the importance of pedestrian paths, wearing bright clothing, carrying essentials like water and snacks, and notifying others about travel plans.

Additional support is provided with free shuttle services by the North Central Regional Transit District (NCRTD) Blue Bus on designated routes between Española and Chimayó. Information on bus schedules is available at RideTheBlueBus.com. "For additional safety tips, watch the Santa Fe County Fire Department’s video," which provides further guidance for pilgrims.

To facilitate a safe pilgrimage, the New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) is actively maintaining roadways, installing signage, and stationing employees along the route to assist those in need. Motorists are urged to exercise caution, be aware of increased pedestrian activities, and adhere to potential road closures, including the possible closure of the third lane along US-84/285 N for pedestrian use.

The coordinated efforts of these regional public safety agencies aim to ensure a safe and meaningful pilgrimage journey for all involved.