Rail Runner can be better, do better
Iagree with Joe Schepps (“Ways to avoid a train wreck,” My View, May 5) that a new look needs to be taken at the New Mexico Rail Runner Express. His views on rethinking the Rail Runner are interesting, but I would like to inject alternate thoughts about the program.
I also think the original use of a large, Amtrak-type train was the wrong decision for many reasons. Such a train is expensive to maintain, run and creates a lot of noise.
Albuquerque has the Albuquerque Rapid Transit, or ART, program going with electric buses. I would think that the manufacturer of those units could build similar units that would run on the railroad tracks for which infrastructure already is in place. I know that the ART manufacturer is having problems, but possibly another could be found to do the same thing.
The idea of an electric, battery-powered train replacing the Rail Runner is the future of the program. Maintenance would be minimal as would operating costs. In Portland, Ore., there is the MAX line, which operates electric train cars, and it is amazing. Being battery-operated would be an even better choice.
Next, transit operators need to improve the shuttle service between the train station and the airport for all departures and arrivals. Internet service needs to be available and reliable on board. I would then contact the Santa Fe hotels and get them to include a Rail Runner ticket with all reservations.
The Rail Runner gets a lot of criticism about the immense expenditure for the infrastructure, but it is there now, and we need to improve it as technology allows. Critics probably do not use the train, so they are not the ones who should control its future. I know, they might feel as though they are paying for it, but I am reminded of a previous analysis.
The Rail Runner carries more people per day than something like 80 percent of the highways do in New Mexico, and we all pay for the upkeep of those roads. I support the Rail Runner, but it does need to improve to ensure long-term success.