Heinrich, Luján, Leger Fernández Announce $678,128 In American Rescue Plan Funds For Trail Expansion To Boost Tourism In Santa Fe

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and U.S. Representative Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.) announced $678,128 in American Rescue Plan funding to Santa Fe County to boost tourism by helping to complete the 15-mile Santa Fe Rail Trail.

“When we invest in New Mexico’s outdoor spaces, like the Santa Fe Rail Trail, we invest in the small businesses and workers that make up our local economies,” said Heinrich. “I’m pleased to see the EDA invest in tourism opportunities in New Mexico, and cannot wait for more people to experience just how enchanting this land really is.”

“I’m glad this investment from the American Rescue Plan will support our growing tourism industry in Santa Fe, as it continues to recover and rebuild,” said Luján. “This federal funding will help complete the 15-mile Santa Fe Rail Trail, which will support our outdoor economy and boost local tourism.”

“The Rail Trail is a beloved space for our communities in Santa Fe, and I am thrilled that this substantial grant will help to complete it,” said Leger Fernández. “The trail is a truly communal effort, funded by local, state, federal, and philanthropic dollars. I can’t wait to see it finished and serve our gente and their families.”

“The travel and tourism industry is an important part of many local economies across the country,” said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Alejandra Y. Castillo. “This project will allow Santa Fe County to expand the Santa Fe Rail Trail to revitalize tourism in the area and provide new opportunities for outdoor recreation.”

Heinrich, Luján, and Leger Fernández championed the American Rescue Plan that included $240 million for the Travel, Tourism, and Outdoor Recreation program. This project will support outdoor recreation and boost the local tourism industry by bringing new visitors to the city, its businesses, and local attractions. This Economic Development Agency grant will be matched with $169,553 in local funds.

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