ABQ Times

ABQ RIDE has focused on enhancing rider experience and safety throughout the past year. The City of Albuquerque's Transit Department, with its 12 divisions and over 360 staff members, has been active in providing safe transportation across the city.

Mayor Tim Keller stated, "Just this summer we announced a layered approach to make transit safer for everyone, and the impact is already noticeable." He highlighted efforts to create a safer, cleaner, and more accessible bus system.

Key milestones in 2024 included the launch of ABQ RIDE Connect, a microtransit pilot program utilizing electric vans that has seen significant engagement since March. The department also completed the final phase of the ABQ RIDE Forward Plan with public input from 3,000 residents. Additionally, they became the first city department to conduct in-house CDL testing by New Mexico State.

The department secured transit safety through partnerships with local law enforcement and launched cleanliness initiatives. New fleet additions include compressed natural gas buses and electric vans. A new app called See Say was introduced for reporting violations within the transit system.

Yvette Parras from Sandia High School shared her experiences using the bus system to teach life skills to special education students: “In special education, a lot of students suffer from not feeling included,” she said. Her focus is on ensuring these students feel safe and included while using public transportation.

Transit Director Leslie Keener announced a new mission statement emphasizing clean, safe transportation. Keener remarked on internal cultural changes aimed at improving staff retention through supportive practices such as hosting appreciation events.

Looking forward to 2025, plans include increased safety presence in collaboration with APD. Commander Bartlett emphasized ongoing cooperation: "This year, the APD took its first-ever intentional steps toward collaborating with ABQ RIDE."

Deputy Director Bobby Sisneros noted improvements: “The improved cleanliness and safety processes wouldn’t be possible without our safety partners.”

Future initiatives for 2025 encompass community-based programs and phased implementation of ABQ RIDE Forward projects including Uptown Connect development and security enhancements at Alvarado Transportation Center.

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