Park-and-ride lot opens in Espanola

ESPANOLA, N.M. (AP) - The New Mexico Department of Transportation and the City of Espanola have opened a $500,000 park-and-ride lot that commuters can use to board buses to Los Alamos, Pojoaque and Santa Fe.

The city donated 1.25 acres and the state provided funds for paving, lights and passenger shelters. The lot has parking spaces for 126 vehicles.

Officials say about 105 passengers board park-and-ride buses in Espanola each day.

Transportation Secretary Gary Giron says public transit is an integral part of the department's mission and provides a convenient option for motorists.

Espanola Mayor Alice Lucero says the park-and-ride lot should also bring people to the city's plaza area.