Reduced fares will keep dollars in commuters’ pockets, offer additional flexibility

SANTA FE – Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham announced on Wednesday that a 75% reduction in Rail Runner fares enacted in April will be extended until the end of the year.

In addition, beginning August 1, the New Mexico Rail Runner Express will add additional service to accommodate commuters and other passengers.

Lastly, to make commuting more convenient for state employees, the state’s Park and Ride shuttle system will be expanded to offer service to additional state buildings and surrounding businesses.

“Like the rest of the country, New Mexicans are dealing with higher prices – especially at the pump,” said Gov. Lujan Grisham. “This is one way we are helping to alleviate some of that burden for working families. We are very excited to offer more flexibility and convenience for Santa Fe and Albuquerque area commuters.”

“We commend the Governor for her actions to extend affordability for commuters and travelers, as gas prices across the country remain high,” said Dewey V. Cave, Executive Director of Rio Metro Regional Transit District. “Additionally, we believe the new train schedule with added service will accommodate the changing workday that many commuters are now experiencing, and also offer more options for shorter trips – which is something people have been wanting for years.”

“Gov. Lujan Grisham’s announcement today that the reduced Rail Runner rates will be extended until the end of the year is great news for the residents of New Mexico and AFSCME and represented state, city and county workers,” said Connie Derr, executive director of AFSCME Council 18. “With the national increase in fuel costs, this is the kind of smart decision-making that is keeping New Mexico on the rails and moving forward.”

Beginning Monday, August 1, Rio Metro Regional Transit District is adding two additional trains to both the weekday schedule and the Saturday schedule.

Beginning July 18, the Department of Transportation will provide Park and Ride shuttle service from the South Capitol stop to the Anaya complex with two stops along Cerrillos in Santa Fe. There will also be a new shuttle from the 599 stop to the National Guard complex, the New Mexico Department of Corrections building, and the Santa Fe County Justice Complex. Commuters and other travelers may also utilize the ride on demand service offered by the North Central Regional Transit District.

Since reducing fares in April, Rail Runner ridership has nearly doubled going from 800 roundtrips a day to averaging over 1,500 currently.

State employees may find additional information on shuttle availability at www.nmparkandride.com