(Albuquerque, NM – October 24th, 2011)- Less than a year since reaching the four million rider mark, the New Mexico Rail Runner Express is getting ready to celebrate another milestone – five million riders!

“It’s encouraging to see that many people have discovered the Rail Runner as a clean, cost-effective alternative to driving their vehicles”, says Dewey Cave, Executive Director of the Mid-Region Council of Governments. “This celebration is a way to thank those passengers who choose the train for their daily commute.”

The Rail Runner, which has become the fastest start-up of a commuter rail train in the country in the past 20 years, currently carries an average of more than 4,000 commuters each workday along a 100-mile corridor between the City of Belen and the City of Santa Fe.

The lucky person to be designated the official five millionth passenger will be notified of their unique distinction at the Downtown Albuquerque Rail Runner Station tomorrow - Tuesday October 25th prior to the departure of the southbound #513 afternoon train at 4:30 pm. Along with a “Five Millionth Passenger“ Certificate and a pass to ride the train free for one year, the winner will receive a gift bag of Rail Runner goodies.

Live Music and Free Refreshments!

In addition, Coscto is providing a separate gift bag for the lucky five millionth winner. Costco will also be providing a commemorative cake for those in attendance of the celebration as well. The Wes Mesa High School Mustang Pride Marching Band will be on hand playing music, and KKOB Radio is setting up a live remote from the Downtown Albuquerque Rail Runner platform.

Five Million Passengers on the Rail Runner!
Celebration of the Five Millionth Rider
Tuesday, October 25th at around 4:30 p.m.
The Downtown Albuquerque Rail Runner Station
1st and Central Avenue

For more information on train schedules and fares, visit www.nmrailrunner.com or call 1-866-795-RAIL.