27-04-2025
After staffing shortage, Bandelier summer shuttle takes off in 5, 4, 3, 2, 1
Bandelier National Monument's free shuttle service to Frijoles Canyon will resume next month.
It's a pared-down service, however.
Unlike in previous years, when the shuttle faced driver shortages, the ride isn't mandatory and will run only between parking facilities at the monument, without the usual stop at the White Rock Visitor Center.
The shuttle, operated by Atomic City Transit in Los Alamos, will run May 14 to Oct. 14 and is expected to depart every 10 minutes after 10 a.m. Bandelier visitors interested in catching a ride to trailheads on the mesa top, or between the visitor center and Juniper Campground, should meet at the Frey Trail Parking Lot.
Entry fees still apply, except for America the Beautiful or Bandelier passholders.
'We want to continue the partnership with the National Park Service and make it a pleasant experience for everybody to come and visit the park, and also visit Los Alamos,' said Atomic City Transit manager James Barela. '... It's unfortunate that we're having to do a tailored service. But we're always willing to support the park as needed.'
Atomic City, Los Alamos County's public bus system, suspended shuttle operations in August because of a lack of drivers last season. The suspension came after the county delayed the start of the free shuttle, again because of shortages.
The reduced services this year mean fewer drivers are needed than in previous years, according to Los Alamos County Deputy Public Works Director Keith Wilson. The transit system is still recruiting shuttle drivers.
Barela said instead of the minimum six drivers needed last year, the county is hoping to hire at least three limited-term drivers.
Atomic City Transit tried a limited-route pilot project last year, after Bandelier was hit with an 'overwhelming amount of ridership' during the weekend of the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. Bandelier staff evaluated the worker shortages and current hiring and funding freezes and decided to run a truncated service, Barela said.
'Whatever we can do to coordinate that and come together, I think is a positive thing for our community,' he added.
Frijoles Canyon was hit in September by flash flooding, which resulted in the closure of some attractions. The National Park Service did not provide an update on any current closures.
