Huh?

“ABQ Ride has something like 2,750 bus stops,” says city transit director Greg Payne.

“I think anyone who’s riding the bus these days knows that we have stops out there that aren’t used and we actually have bus shelters and we aren’t stopping the bus anymore,” he said. “So we’re just kind of doing a little cleanup.”

Payne said the city is notifying neighborhood associations of the possible closures and begin posting notices at bus stops slated to be closed.

The department is looking at 500 bus stops which could be closed or combined with other ones. However, a city spokesperson said it isn't likely that 500 will be closed.

Before any stops are actually closed, the city wants input from ABQ Ride users. One of them, Mary East, says the city will certainly get input – possible more than an earful.

“I’ve had some older people tell me they’re going to call everyday on the hour,” she said. “So if they don’t want the phone calls everyday, they’re going to have to make different arrangements.”

Payne says closing the bus stops will save maintenance money and the fuel it takes to stop and start.

The closures are scheduled to be phased in over the next two years. You can voice your opinion on ABQ Ride’s plan by calling 243 RIDE (7433).