The New Mexico Rail Runner Express train line that runs between Santa Fe to Belen faces a challenge. A few years back, Congress approved new safety standards that all passenger trains must comply with. The problem is the 50-million dollar price-tag, because the Rail Runner has been left to foot the bill.
Augusta Meyers is the communications director for the New Mexico Rail Runner Express.
Meyers says the Rail Runner has submitted a limited operations plan that may result in a reduction in the number of daily passenger trains, but she expressed confidence that wouldn’t occur. And she pointed out that of the 17 train crash incidents that have happened since the Rail Runner started service in 2006, none would have been prevented ty the Positive Train Control safety system.