As the cost of fuel remains high in New Mexico and across the country, the state and train operators have teamed up to offer significantly reduced fares to make it more affordable for commuters and travelers to get around.
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham (D-NM) and the New Mexico Rail Runner Express recently revealed that train fares would be reduced by 75% through the end of July.
"Daily ridership on the Rail Runner is about 60% of pre-pandemic ridership levels," Terry Double, director of the Rio Metro Regional Transit District, said in a press release. "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."
The price reduction applies to all types of passes people can buy, including longer-term passes, according to the press release.
The Rio Metro Regional Transit District is shifting operational costs to cover 50% of the fare reduction, while the state's Department of Transportation will pay for the remaining 25%, the release noted.
Those purchasing train fares will see the adjusted prices starting on Monday, April 18; this includes one-way, day pass, and monthly pass Rail Runner fares.
