One-way, day pass and monthly pass Rail Runner fares reduced by 75 percent beginning April 18. Courtesy/riometro
STATE News:
SANTA FE — Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham and the New Mexico Rail Runner Express announced on Friday that the state and train operators have partnered to cut train fares by 75 percent through the end of July, increasing affordability for commuters and travelers as gas prices remain high across the country.
Beginning Monday, April 18, all one-way, day pass, and monthly pass Rail Runner fares will be reduced by 75 percent. The Rio Metro Regional Transit District will shift operational costs to cover 50% of the fare reduction – the remaining 25% reduction will be covered by reimbursement funding from the New Mexico Department of Transportation. The reduced prices will remain in place through at least July 31.
“We are using every available tool in the state’s toolkit to deliver economic relief to New Mexicans,” Gov. Lujan Grisham said. “Reducing public transportation costs for the Rail Runner provides commuters with another affordable option while gas prices remain high. My thanks to Rio Metro and NMDOT for partnering to make this support for New Mexicans a reality.”
“Daily ridership on the Rail Runner is about 60 percent of pre pandemic ridership levels,” said Director Terry Doyle of Rio Metro Regional Transit District. “Now with more people returning to work and gas prices at an all-time high, we’re hoping that this reduced fare promotion encourages many to get back on the train, and also attracts those who have never commuted by rail to give it a try.”
“We’ve been so focused on providing safe travel as we’ve navigated through the pandemic, that I think sometimes we forget how cost-effective the Rail Runner is – covering 100-miles of territory right through the heart of central New Mexico 7-days a week”, said Executive Director Dewey V. Cave of the Mid-Region Council of Governments. “Now, train passengers can get even more bang for their buck these next two months – whether it’s for their work commute or for travel and leisure – the Rail Runner remains a safe, convenient, and affordable choice.”
For more details, visit www.riometro.org – Rio Metro Customer Service representatives are available 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday and 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. on weekends at 866.795.7245 and 505.245.RAIL (7245).
