The federal government has awarded the City of Albuquerque's ABQ Ride a $25 million Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) Grant to fund the Uptown Connect: The Uptown Transit Center Joint Development project, and an additional $18.2 million through the Low or No Emission Vehicle Program, the city government announced recently.
Mayor Tim Keller, U.S. Sens. Ben Ray Lujan and Martin Heinrich (both D-NM) and White House Senior Advisor and Infrastructure Coordinator Mitch Landrieu joined in the announcement.
“It was an honor to join White House Senior Advisor Mitch Landrieu, Senator Heinrich, and Mayor Keller to highlight $25 million for public transit in Albuquerque,” Lujan said in the press release. “These funds will help improve public safety and ensure that our roads are safe for all New Mexicans.”
The second grant of $18.2 will enable the transit agency to buy 20 electric buses and associated charging equipment, the press release said.
The two awards were made with funds authorized by the 2021 federal "Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act."
“President Biden’s Investing in America agenda is helping communities in New Mexico access opportunity, health care, and education,” Landrieu said in the press release. “This $25 million RAISE grant for Albuquerque's Bus Transit Center will improve safety, reduce traffic by getting cars off the road, and cut emissions—all while creating good-paying jobs. I have no doubt it will benefit the people of Albuquerque for years to come."
“In Albuquerque, we recognize the importance of combating climate change and fostering a solid, sustainable future for our community,” Keller said in the press release. “These grants are a game-changer in advancing our ongoing commitment to building a sustainable future for our city. We appreciate the support of our federal delegation in helping secure funding for this historic investment.”
“The awards received by ABQ RIDE are a testament to the resilience and hard work our team puts in each and every day to make the transit system in Albuquerque the best it can be for its residents,” Transit Director Leslie Keener said. “The additional electric buses and redevelopment of the Uptown Transit Center funded by these federal grants are a huge step as the department continues its efforts to reimagine the efficiency and effectiveness of public transportation.”