Higher gasoline prices are prompting more New Mexicans to turn to the Rail Runner Express, the state’s commuter rail that links Albuquerque, Bernalillo, and Santa Fe. With the statewide average for regular gasoline now at $4.31 per gallon—more than $1.50 higher than a year ago—travelers are seeking cost‑effective ways to get to work, school, and recreation.
Ridership climbs amid soaring fuel costs
According to Rail Runner communications manager Augusta Myers, the train is now averaging between 2,200 and 2,500 passengers each day. That represents an increase of roughly 4,000 to 5,000 riders compared with the same period last year. The agency notes that ridership can rise as much as 30 % when gasoline prices jump, a trend that aligns with the current market conditions.
Economic benefits for families
A day pass from Albuquerque to Santa Fe costs about $9. By comparison, driving the roughly 65‑mile route could cost between $8 and $12 in gasoline alone, depending on vehicle efficiency and current fuel prices. For families on a budget, the Rail Runner offers a predictable, affordable alternative that also reduces wear and tear on personal vehicles.
Service enhancements respond to new demand
To accommodate the growing number of riders, Rail Runner officials have added weekday service, including additional midday trains. These changes reflect the shift toward hybrid work schedules that many employees have adopted since the COVID‑19 pandemic. “If people even try it one time, they might see that they could implement that into their work schedule, maybe two or three times a week,” Myers said. “You don’t have to ride it every day to appreciate what the Rail Runner brings to that situation.”
Beyond commuting: leisure and tourism
While the pandemic once saw about 60 % of passengers commuting to state government jobs in Santa Fe, today riders are also using the service for leisure and entertainment. The train operates from roughly 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., serving 15 stations along a nearly 100‑mile corridor through central New Mexico, making it convenient for weekend trips to cultural sites, outdoor recreation, and family outings.
July sets a new high
Data from 2024 through August shows July was the busiest month on record, with more than 62,000 riders. The upward trajectory suggests that as gasoline prices remain elevated, the Rail Runner will continue to play a vital role in providing affordable mobility for New Mexicans.
Looking ahead
Rail Runner officials plan to monitor fuel price trends and adjust service levels accordingly, ensuring that the system remains a dependable option for commuters, families, and tourists alike. By offering a stable, cost‑effective alternative to driving, the Rail Runner supports both individual liberty—by giving citizens a choice in how they travel—and traditional family values, by helping households stretch their budgets further.
Original reporting: KOAT Albuquerque — read the source article.
