(Albuquerque, NM - May 22, 2007)- Beginning Memorial Day weekend and running through Labor Day weekend, the New Mexico Rail Runner Express is offering special Friday and Saturday service for the summer.
 
“This is something lots of people have been asking for”, says Lawrence Rael, Executive Director of the Mid-Region Council of Governments. “Every time we’ve run a special train on a weekend, the response has been overwhelming. We’re hoping that this service encourages people to ride the train downtown and take advantage of the City’s Summerfest program, enjoy the unique shopping, and of course – all the great food.”
 
Summer service extends regular the Friday commuter schedule into the evenings with the last train leaving downtown at 9:40pm.The Summer Saturday schedule will make Rail Runner service available from 11:25 in the morning with the last train leaving downtown Albuquerque at 11:30pm. (See schedule).
 
“This is perfect timing for the Rail Runner to extend service,” says Albuquerque Mayor Martin Chavez. “People can take the train downtown and walk over to Summerfest, or catch a Rapid Ride bus to various other places –, Old Town, Nob Hill – even the uptown malls. Best of all, they don’t have to pay high gas prices to enjoy themselves, and don’t have to look for parking. This is great!
 
In addition to extended summer Rail Runner service, ABQRide is starting its “Rapid After Dark” bus service, which runs on Friday and Saturday nights every 20-minutes from 8pm-to-3am.
 
“This summer service is a great way for people to see what downtown Albuquerque has to offer on weekends”, says Brian Morris, President of the Downtown Action Team. “There are a number of businesses willing to offer discounts to those who bring in Rail Runner tickets. All people have to do is look for the Rail Runner logo in the business’ window – so there’s a lot of fun collaboration going on with transit and merchants that will really enhance the transportation experience and benefit the public.”