Today, riders were rewarded with prizes for taking zero-fare transit to the Winrock Park Market to shop with local vendors. City Councilor Tammy Fiebelkorn, ABQ RIDE, and Winrock Town Center encourage transit ridership whenever possible. Access to Saturday’s market allows for less wait time during construction and eliminates the hassle of busy parking areas ramping up to the holiday season. As an incentive, Saturday’s riders were greeted at the Route 766 bus stop, given gift bags with prizes, and directed to Winrock Park.
“The Winrock Park Market is quickly becoming a staple in the Uptown community,” said Councilor Fiebelkorn. “To combine it with a zero-fare transit ride makes for a perfect Saturday. Transit is not only for home-work trips but also for getting to fun family events and for shopping locally.”
The Winrock Park Market recurs every Saturday through October 19, 2024, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, where local growers, artisans, makers, food trucks, and live music come together for a vibrant community experience. The market takes place in Winrock Park located behind Dillard's.
The adoption of permanent Zero Fares in Albuquerque enables passengers to board Albuquerque Rapid Transit (ART), Fixed Route, and Sun Van services without paying a fare or presenting a pass – the public can simply walk on and walk off. In November 2023, City Councilor Tammy Fiebelkorn co-sponsored and passed O-23-89 creating Zero Fares in Albuquerque. Albuquerque is one of the largest U.S. cities to implement Zero Fares following Kansas City, Missouri who implemented a similar program in 2020.
“This event exemplifies how local businesses, city leaders, and the transit system can collaborate in a beneficial way for all parties,” said Transit Director Leslie Keener. “Constituents enjoy a free ride and access to fun local events; Winrock Town Center increases attendance and event promotion; and ABQ RIDE raises ridership and awareness about convenient bus access to gems around Albuquerque.”
Albuquerque community members are encouraged to use zero-fare transit services to the Winrock Park Market for the remainder of the market season to shop locally, enjoy family fun, and listen to live music!