Cutting the cost of transportation

ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - Even with gas prices continuing to drop, transportation still offers consumers tightening their budgets opportunities to save money.

Public transportation is one obvious saving not only in fuel costs but in vehicle upkeep and maintenance. Several metro

areas have bus systems, and passage of a transportation sales tax in the recent election promises to add connecting services to the Rail Runner Express commuter trains in seven central and northern counties.

In Albuquerque ABQ Ride recently expanded service and rolled back a fee for transfers so roundtrip rides cost $2, even less will monthly passes.

Rail Runner remains on track to extend service to Santa Fe at the end of the year. Fees are zone-based and range from $2 to $6 one-way, less with various pass options.

Even with gas at $2 a gallon, a Belen commuter working in Albuquerque could spend about $112 a month for a 70-mile roundtrip commute. Rail Runner would cost $40 a month saving $72.

Someone commuting to Santa Fe and spending around $200 a month on gas would save $100 a month by riding the train.

People unable or unwilling to take advantage of public transit still can save money by changing their driving habits and being picky about where they buy gas. Simply accelerating slowly, braking less and not speeding can save gas.

Fans of hypermiling use a number of tricks to increase mileage including coasting when it's safe and staying in the right lane so speeders passing in the left lane create a brief low-pressure zone.

In her report Kim Vallez has more ideas on increasing mileage and reducing costs while getting from here to there and back.