New Mexico Rail Runner fare cuts extended, service to increase

A 75% reduction in New Mexico Rail Runner fares enacted in April will be extended until the end of the year, Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham announced yesterday.

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

"Like the rest of the country, New Mexicans are dealing with higher prices – especially at the pump," said Lujan Grisham in a press release. "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."

The new train schedule and additional service will "accommodate the changing workday that many commuters are experiencing and also offer more options for shorter trips," said Rio Metro Regional Transit District Executive Director Dewey Cave.

As of Aug. 1, the district will add two trains to both the weekday and Saturday schedules.

Since reducing fares in April, Rail Runner ridership has nearly doubled from 800 roundtrips a day to averaging over 1,500 today, Rio Metro officials said.