Equity refers to the fairness with which impacts (costs and benefits) are distributed. There are many types of equity to consider in public transportation, including accessibility, reliability, affordability, the ability to create good jobs by expanding public transit, and the ability to protect our health and climate by using renewable energy.

This month’s guest blog post features a conversation on transit equity between a local public transit rider and a transportation planner from the Mid-Region Metropolitan Planning Organization (MRMPO).

New Mexico ranks 5th largest in size among the 50 states. There are many transportation providers, large and small, public and private, located throughout the more than 121,000 square mile area.

How do they stay connected, receive training, and remain relevant in the eyes of decision makers like State Legislators? The New Mexico Transit Association (NMTA) plays a big role, acting as a communication hub for transit providers and working closely with the New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) Transit and Rail Division.

Like many other enterprises, the New Mexico Rail Runner Express commuter rail service was suspended in wake of the COVID-19 health pandemic. The rail system reopened its doors to a small but enthusiastic group of passengers on March 8, 2021 - nearly a year to the date after service was suspended. 

In this letter, New Mexico Rail Runner Express General Manager Kevin Merlo provides an overview of the hard work and accomplishments that took place during the service suspension, and takes a look at what is next for the Rail Runner and its staff.