Socorro transportation program offers affordable rides 

For many residents in Socorro, getting to a doctor’s appointment, the grocery store or even the train station is easier thanks to the city’s local transportation program.

The service, operated by the City of Socorro, provides curb-to-curb rides throughout town and a shuttle connection to the regional train system in Belen. According to Transportation Director Carlos Saavedra, the program has become an essential resource for many residents.

They offer curb-to-curb shuttle service starting at 8:45 a.m. until 3:45 p.m., Monday through Friday.

The in-town transportation service allows riders to schedule a pickup directly from their home and travel anywhere within city limits by calling 575-835-1501. Unlike a traditional bus route with fixed stops, the service operates on a call-in basis.

“All you have to do is call and ask for a pickup time,” Saavedra said. “If you need to be at a doctor’s appointment at nine o’clock, we’ll pick you up at 8:45, take you there and then come back later to pick you up when you’re done.”

Rides are inexpensive. The cost is just 50 cents per stop, with 25 cents rides available for seniors and students.

Residents commonly use the service for errands, medical visits or social outings.

“You can go to a friend’s house, the library, the grocery store, doctor’s appointments — anywhere within city limits,” he said.

In addition to the local service, the city also operates a shuttle that connects Socorro with the New Mexico Rail Runner Express station in Belen.

The train connection runs twice a day on Wednesdays and Fridays.

“The first one leaves at 5:30 in the morning,” Saavedra said. “It has three stops — here at our office, then at the Fidel Center at New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology, and the third stop is at Sedillo Park.”

The shuttle returns in the afternoon to meet riders coming back from the train. Departures leave Socorro at 4:30 p.m., 4:45 p.m. and 5 p.m. from the same locations.

The cost for the Belen route is also designed to remain affordable. Riders can purchase individual fares or discounted passes.

“Nowhere else can you get a ride to Belen for two dollars,” Saavedra said.

Once riders arrive at the Belen station, they can connect with the train or other transit services in the region.

“If someone needs to go to Albuquerque or somewhere else along the Rail Runner line, this helps them make that connection,” Saavedra said.

According to Saavedra, the service is particularly important for seniors, residents without vehicles and people who may have difficulty driving.

The program also works closely with local healthcare providers, helping transport patients to appointments at the Socorro Wellness Center and other medical offices.

Safety is a priority for the program as well. Vehicles are wheelchair accessible, and staff  are trained in CPR.

“It helps a lot of people,” he said. “That’s what it’s here for.”