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Train Route In Northern NM Not Allocated Funds

New Mexico lawmakers have not allocated funding for the upkeep of tracks along a historic passenger train route through northern New Mexico.

That puts the state at risk of losing the Amtrak Southwest Chief passenger train route. The train stops in Raton, Las Vegas and Lamy.

The Santa Fe New Mexican reports that neither Republican Gov. Susana Martinez nor the Legislative Finance Committee have sought to allocate the estimated $4 million a year it will cost to maintain the route over the next decade.

Rep. Roberto "Bobby" Gonzales, D-Taos, said lawmakers will seek state capital outlay funds and federal transportation grants to cover the cost.

The Martinez administration says the state is coordinating with towns and counties to pursue grants and that the state supports keeping the route.

Information from: Santa Fe New Mexican. 

Copyright 2015 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.