NCRTD News:
RIO ARRIBA COUNTY, NM — The North Central Regional Transit District (NCRTD) Blue Bus will open four newly reconstructed bus stops in Velarde and Alcalde on Monday, June 29, following the completion of safety, comfort, and accessibility improvements designed to better serve riders throughout the region.
The upgraded stops, located along NM-68, were reconstructed to improve accessibility for riders of all abilities. Enhancements include bus pull offs, level boarding areas, bus shelters, seating, waste receptacles and lighting that provide a safer, more comfortable waiting environment for passengers.
The improvements were made possible through the Transportation Project Fund (TPF), which is funded by the New Mexico Legislature and administered by the New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT). NMDOT selected this project for funding as part of its ongoing efforts to improve transportation infrastructure throughout the state.
“We are grateful to the New Mexico Department of Public Transportation for investing in infrastructure that directly benefits our riders and the communities we serve,” said Nicholas A. Sofoul, Executive Director of the North Central Regional Transit District. “These improvements create safer, more accessible bus stops while enhancing the overall rider experience for everyone who utilizes Blue Bus services.”
The total project cost was $426,162, with state funds covering 95 percent of the project cost. This investment helps advance safer, more accessible public transportation infrastructure for communities across north central New Mexico.
“Reliable transportation is essential for connecting our residents to jobs, healthcare, education and other important services,” said Commissioner Alex Naranjo, Rio Arriba County Commissioner. “These improvements will provide a safer and more comfortable experience for riders in Velarde and Alcalde while helping strengthen mobility throughout our communities. We appreciate NCRTD, NMDOT and the State of New Mexico for their investment in Rio Arriba County.”
In addition to the Velarde and Alcalde improvements, the District recently completed upgrades to two bus stops in Santa Clara Pueblo. The project included the installation of new shelters, waste receptacles, solar lighting, ADA-accessible boarding areas and seating that make waiting for the bus easier and more convenient for passengers.
These improvements were funded through the Federal Transit Administration’s (FTA) Tribal Transit Program and completed in close partnership with Santa Clara Pueblo.
“The collaboration and support of Santa Clara Pueblo were instrumental in bringing these improvements to completion,” Lee A. Garcia, Board Chair to the North Central Regional Transit District’s Board of Directors. “We sincerely appreciate the Pueblo’s partnership and the FTA’s continued investment in transit infrastructure that helps connect our Tribal communities.”
The Blue Bus remains committed to improving the safety, accessibility and comfort of its transit system through strategic investments and partnerships that strengthen mobility throughout the region.
For route information, schedules and service updates, visit RidetheBlueBus.com or call 866.206.0754.
