The Rio Grande Gorge Bridge project was begun in July 1963 and completed in September 1965 for the benefit of Northern New Mexico. George Lavender, New Mexico State Highway Commissioner from 1955 to 1961, was recognized for his dedicated efforts toward its completion. At the start of construction, Jack M. Campbell was governor, and the State Highway Commission included John F. Sudderth as chairman, L.E. Murray as vice-chairman, John Q. Thaxton as secretary, and Wayne Collins and Frank Tatsch as members. When the bridge was completed, Jack M. Campbell was still governor, with John F. Sudderth as chairman, John Q. Thaxton as vice-chairman, Hugh M. Milton II as secretary, Thomas G. Trotter and Wayne Collins as members, T.B. White as chief highway engineer, and J.H. Ryan and Son Inc. as contractor.