Record level passenger numbers
force Rail Runner to add extra train cars
High Gas prices encourage commuters to “dump the pump” and
“catch the bird”!
(Albuquerque, 6-14-07) – Rider numbers on the New Mexico
Rail Runner Express have jumped approximately 23-percent the past
two weeks, causing an extra train car to be added to several routes
to accommodate the increased passenger load.
“We’re pretty sure that escalating gas prices are a
big contributing factor”, says Lawrence Rael, Executive Director of
the Mid-Region Council of Governments. “The other factor to consider
is that it’s summertime, and people are looking for ways to have
fun, but keep costs down.”
A new summertime schedule went into effect over the Memorial Day
weekend which extends Rail Runner service on Fridays into the
evening, and all day on Saturdays through Labor Day weekend.
“It’s great to see people embracing Rail Runner on weekends”, says
New Mexico Department of Transportation Secretary Rhonda Faught.
“The Rail Runner takes the hassle out of getting around in the
region, and offers an affordable way to do it.”
The parking lot at the Rail Runner Station in Los Lunas has been
overflowing with cars the past few days as commuters clamor to get a
seat on the train.
“We just expanded the parking lot at this station, and already we
need more spaces to accommodate all the rail commuters!” says Los
Lunas Mayor Louis Huning. “The Rail Runner is proving to be a great
way for people – especially young people – to travel safely
throughout the region, not to mention inexpensively. We’re glad
service has been extended to include Saturdays during summer”.
Contacts:
- Augusta Meyers, MRCOG Communications Mgr. 505-239-8612, ameyers@mrcog-nm.gov
- S.U. Mahesh, NM Department of Transportation (505) 490-0976
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