Rail Runner extends low ticket cost, adds more trains for commuters

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Rail Runner representatives say those cheap ticket prices aren’t going anywhere anytime soon.

This comes at a time where more people are ditching their car and taking the Rail Runner, which is why it’s keeping their ticket prices low and adding more trips.

Many have been taking the Rail Runner for a while, others are just getting started. 

Gas prices is playing a big part in that. 

“My vehicle is kind of in a mess, so yeah taking it is comfortable,” said Robby, Rail Runner rider. “It does make a difference when the gas prices went up.”

And frequent riders have noticed just how busy the New Mexico Rail Runner has become.

“There has been a lot more people on here,” said Frank, Rail Runner rider.  

Last month, the Rail Runner saw the most riders in the past year going from 23,000 in July 2021, to 39,000 in June 2022.

“We saw literally a 50% jump overnight,” said Augusta Meyers, the New Mexico Rail Runner Express’ communications manager. 

Ticket prices were cut by 75%, and the cost of gas may have something to do with it.

Now those ticket prices were supposed to return to normal at the end of this month. But on Wednesday, officials said that’s no longer the case.

“Now we worked with them to extend it through the end of the year,” said Meyers. 

Meaning people can still ride to their destination for just a couple of bucks.

Meyers says they are making another change, one that has been asked by customers over the years. The Rail Runner is adding more trains to help with the flow and to cut down that wait time.

“This new service cuts that time in half,” Meyers said. 

Especially during those hot summer months.

The increased service will start in August and will last a year, so officials can see how successful it is.

But while there was an increase in ridership, KOB 4 was told it still has not reached pre-pandemic levels – but officials are hopeful it will happen eventually.