SantaFeToday.com Santa Fe’s Hometown News
The North Central Regional Transit District (NCRTD) Blue Bus today announced it has been awarded a $9.5 million grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) discretionary grant program. This federal funding, which does not require any local or match funding, will support Phase One of the District’s proposed Blue Bus Regional Rural Rapid Transit System, enhancing connectivity between Santa Fe, Española, Taos, and the many communities between using diesel-electric hybrid buses and technological innovations to provide more frequent and efficient bus travel across the region.
“This grant marks a pivotal moment for our region’s transportation infrastructure,” said Anthony Mortillaro, NCRTD Executive Director. “It will allow us to advance our vision of integrated mobility and community vitality through the development of an innovative Rural Rapid Transit system that will connect our communities and help the environment.”
Phase One of the proposed project includes the completion of final design, site acquisition, and site development for seven mobility hubs strategically located along the transit route. These hubs will serve as focal points for seamless integration of various transportation modes, supporting multimodal infrastructure and activating community spaces. Additionally, seven diesel electric hybrid buses will be procured to launch the Rural Rapid Transit System. Eventually, 21 hybrid electric buses would serve the route. Phase One implementation may start as soon as October 2026.
“This initiative not only improves transportation options but also contributes to environmental sustainability by reducing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions,” added Mortillaro.
The District will seek additional funding to complete the $34.8 million project as part of its Long-Range Strategic Plan, developed following input from communities across the region. Using the three cities of Taos, Española and Santa Fe to anchor Rural Rapid Transit service will support interconnected mobility options, promote economic development and placemaking, and equitably distribute transit service in northern New Mexico.
Funding for this project is part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to rebuilding America’s infrastructure through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg noted, “Today’s announcement underscores our dedication to enhancing transportation safety, resilience, and accessibility across diverse communities nationwide.”
The North Central Regional Transit District Blue Bus connects communities and pueblos across 10,000 square miles throughout north central New Mexico, including Española, Los Alamos, Santa Fe and Taos. The signature Blue Bus™ provides service on 28 fixed routes, MyBlue™ on-demand ridesharing in Taos and Espanola, and ADA paratransit service. The District was named the 2024 Community Transit System of the Year – Small System by the Community Transportation System of America (CTAA)
