When Los Alamos County decided to start taxing the Atomic Energy Lab that is based within their jurisdiction, a whole bunch of new tax revenue was suddenly sitting prettily in their city coffers. Which is why the Atomic City Transit is such a nice bus line.
While visiting Bandalier National Monument and enjoying lunch in the picnic area, I noticed these colorful buses that appeared regularly in the parking lot. They were the Atomic City Transit buses, which operate from 6:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Monday - Friday except for holidays.
It is important to know that during the summer months, you cannot drive into the park between 9 and 3. The reason for the shuttle is that a fire and subsequent flooding in the area made this necessary. It's only a 20 minute ride on theshuttle bus. The free shuttle runs from White Rock Visitor Center, about 8 miles from the park entrance. It runs every 20-30 minutes. If you're hiking a distance, you can drive into the park before 9 am and park at the lot by the visitor center. There is a $12 fee.
When I tiptoed down to feel the water in Frijoles Creek, (freezing!) I stopped to admire a bus that was on a scheduled break. The Los Alamos buses are clean and neat. They do not look like any of the hard core buses you see in large urban areas.
Even better, ACT actually brings you to the local Airport at your request! According to the ACT website, "ACT Route 2 serves the airport (LAM) upon request. Riders should advise the Route 2 driver of airport terminal building destination when boarding the bus. Riders should call 661-RIDE (7433) to request a Route 2 pick-up at the airport terminal building." Imagine that! Calling your city bus to come get you at the airport or drop you off at your request!
Even better--ACT has an ACTracker which links to the bus line's real time route information site. Click on this link from any computer or mobile device for route maps and estimated arrival times. You can also create an account and sign up for service updates. Yes, this is a great transportation system! 5 YELP STARS! read more