Located in the heart of north central New Mexico, the North Central Regional Transit District—known as the Blue Bus—has been a vital lifeline for communities. Serving over 10,000 square miles from Edgewood and Santa Fe to Taos, Chama, and Mora County, the Blue Bus offers an array of transit services designed to meet the diverse needs of residents.
Comprehensive Transit Services
The Blue Bus provides a variety of transportation options, including:
- Fixed Route Services: Reliable transit routes connecting urban and rural areas.
- On-Demand MyBlue Service: A convenient micro-transit, app-based ridesharing option for passengers who prefer flexibility.
- Paratransit: Essential support for individuals with mobility challenges.
Best of all, all bus services are free, with the MyBlue service available for just $1 per trip.
Recent Milestones
This has been a landmark year for the Blue Bus. “We recently officially celebrated our 20th anniversary,” said Rick L’Amie, Communications and Marketing Manager.
The agency held a special event at its headquarters in Española, honoring partners, stakeholders, and elected officials. Throughout the year, you can expect to see signage, videos, and information that highlight the agency's achievements over the last two decades.
In June, the Blue Bus was honored by the Community Transportation Association of America as the Small Transit System of the Year. This prestigious recognition reflects the agency’s commitment to innovative and responsive transit solutions, collaboration with other services, and building valuable public-private partnerships.
“We were honored to be the first public transportation system in New Mexico to earn the award and be recognized by our peers across the country,” said L’Amie
Additionally, the agency secured nearly $20 million in federal grants for key projects, including:
- A $9.5 million grant to launch a Rural Rapid Transit System, which aims to enhance connectivity between Taos and Santa Fe with new diesel-electric hybrid buses and mobility hubs.
- A $9.2 million grant to expand its Española headquarters, ensuring that staff have the necessary space to support the growing transit operations.
Following service reductions after the pandemic, and labor shortages, service levels have been restored in Española and Taos, and a previously suspended route in Red River is once again operational thanks to successful hiring efforts.
Looking Ahead
According to L’Amie, new developments are on the horizon. In October, the Blue Bus will launch the next MyBlue on-demand ride share service in Edgewood. The agency has acquired 10 new all-electric vehicles for MyBlue service in Taos and Española as part of its commitment to a zero-emission bus fleet.
Rail and Blue Bus Connections
The Blue Bus offers connections from the New Mexico Rail Runner Express, enhancing regional travel options. Some of these include:
- 200/300 Combined Route: Weekdays between the South Capitol Rail Runner Station and Taos.
- 305 Taos Express: Weekends between the South Capitol Station and Taos.
- Mountain Trail Route: Daily service between the South Capitol Station and Ski Santa Fe (please note, there is a temporary suspension on this route due to road construction).
“We’re proud to partner with Rio Metro, and our source of funding helps support the Rail Runner. We’re glad to work closely with the organization,” said L’Amie.
Contacting the Blue Bus
For more information about services and schedules visit ridethebluebus.com or call (866) 206-0754. Passengers are also encouraged to download the myStop app for assistance with trip planning, real time information, and alerts.
By Riann Martinez, Marketing Specialist, Rio Metro Regional Transit District
