Happy Holidays Everyone!
As we embrace the season of giving and head toward turning the page on what has undoubtedly been an interesting year to say the least, I am reminded that despite the hardships we have faced during much of this year, there is much for which to be grateful.
Though the global public health crisis has forced commuter rail service to be suspended, and much of our bus service curtailed the past several months, our Rio Metro family has grown stronger and more united through it all. I believe that this unforeseen postponement has given us all a greater appreciation for what we do, and our mission has never been more vital to those we serve.
Positive Train Control
While the pandemic put the brakes on train service in March, it did not stop the critical work of installing a major safety enhancement on our rail system. You may have heard about Positive Train Control or “PTC” – the federal safety improvement that came with a hefty $60-million-dollar price tag and an end of 2020 deadline. I am happy to report that the next time you step foot aboard the New Mexico Rail Runner Express, you will be experiencing a state-of-the-art passenger system that ensures no train-to-train collisions, derailments, or other rail catastrophes.
New Amenities and Enhancements
Another thing you can look forward to the next time you ride with Rio Metro, is continued and enhanced cleanliness protocols. To ensure safety for both staff and passengers, we are making a strong commitment to enhanced cleaning of buses and railcars that meet or exceed the guidelines for safe transit operations. Additionally, we will provide new amenities to maintain a clean, disinfected environment. No matter “when” we get all our vehicles back up and rolling again that will be part of our operating practice. Please visit riometro.org for the latest on all of our updated COVID-19 transit practices.
A Word of Thanks
It is “You”, our riders and supporters, the faces of public transportation in Central New Mexico, that keep us striving to do better. And it is your character, resilience, and dedication that makes us confident about the better days ahead.
So, as an uncertain year comes to a close, there is one thing you can rely on…and that is our continued commitment to you - our loyal communities in the region. We thank you for your trust and dedication in Rio Metro, and we are counting on seeing you all again in 2021.
Enjoy the Season and Hope to See you Next Year!
Best,
Terry Doyle
Director of Rio Metro Regional Transit District