After 4 million riders, Rail Runner still controversial

January 19, 2011

with new mexico's massive minute thumbnail 05:13 pm minute thumbnail 05:14 pm budget shortfall, there's some concern about what might happen to the rail runner minute thumbnail 05:15 pm this legislative session. and as the commuter train reaches a new ridership milestone... crystal kobza shows us some ideas being tossed around to make sure it stays running. "i think if you look at the fact that we're celebrating out 4 millionth rider tomorrow-- we have 4 million people who have used the railrunner since it opened-- that's huge." governor susana martinez says she wants to take a closer look at the rail runner and ways to make it more effective. augusta meyers with the mid- region council of governments says... they welcome any ideas to keep the train operating. "i think theres room for conversation with the administration about that. i think we have some ideas about making it more efficient and even cost effective." right now-- meyers says... the cost for the train service breaks down like this. 25 percent of funds come from the government. 25 percent more from fare funds and fees. and the remaining 50 percent-- is from voter approved taxes. --- some options minute thumbnail 05:16 pm may include increasing fares, cutting the amount of service times, or even getting a private company to operate the train.