More Rides, Less Hassle
Transit ridership jumps this year following system upgrades.
July 17, 2026
ALBUQUERQUE – ABQ RIDE’s latest ridership numbers moved up in every category, showing a 4% increase across services compared to last year. Systemwide averages show 22,000 passenger boardings daily and more than 8 million total in fiscal year 2026 – meaning if each of those passengers stood in a line, it would span from Los Angeles to New York City.
FY26 ridership increase:
- Fixed route: 5,339,240 (+2%).
- Albuquerque Rapid Transit (ART): 2,455,059 (+6.5%).
- ABQ RIDE Connect: 15,448 (+5.2%).
- Sun Van: 214,028 (+8.7%).
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All services: 8,023,775 (+4%).
“More people riding the bus means less risky roads, less pollution, and less money at the gas pump,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “Not many other cities offer free transit, so we want folks to make the most of it here.”
The increase in ridership coincides with the system’s ABQ RIDE Forward service improvements, including updated routes, higher frequency, and tighter security.
“Our goal is to make transit a more convenient and reliable option for people to get around Albuquerque,” said Transit Director Leslie Keener. “It’s encouraging to see ridership growing because it shows that better service is attracting new riders to try the bus.”
The public will continue seeing frequency, convenience, safety, and reliability upgrades as the 16-phase rollout of ABQ RIDE Forward continues. Phase I launched in December of 2025, phase 2 in May of 2026, and the next two phases are expected to start later this year.
“Remember the bus as an option when planning your favorite summer events,” said Transit Deputy Director Bobby Sisneros. “It’s a safe and cool way to arrive without worrying about parking and gas prices.”
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ABQ RIDE’s mission is to provide the community with safe, clean, and reliable transportation.