NMDOT Approves Expanded Mainline Operations for Historic Santa Fe Steam Locomotive 2926

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M., June 14, 2025 — The New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) has approved expanded mainline access for the fully restored Santa Fe Railway steam locomotive 2926, operated by the New Mexico Steam Locomotive and Railroad Historical Society, doing business as New Mexico Heritage Rail (NMHR). This expanded access was finalized through an amendment to the existing Joint Use Agreement and grants NMHR operating rights on 40 miles of NMDOT-owned Rail Runner Express (NMRX) mainline track in central New Mexico.

“This agreement allows us to bring an important piece of New Mexico railroad history to more communities along the corridor,” said Mathew Casford, NMHR Vice President and Chief of Rail Operations. “We deeply appreciate NMDOT’s collaboration in helping preserve and operate this national treasure.”

Previously limited to a 2.7-mile segment near downtown Albuquerque, NMHR’s operating territory now stretches from Bernalillo to Los Lunas. The expanded access applies to non-revenue deadhead moves, enabling Locomotive 2926 and its support equipment to travel for staging, maintenance and community outreach. Importantly, the amendment also grants NMHR access to eight additional NMRX commuter rail stations for public outreach and educational events, enhancing community engagement along the Rail Runner corridor.

Built in 1944, Locomotive 2926 is a fully restored Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railway 4-8-4 Northern-type steam engine, and one of the largest and most powerful of its kind still in operation. Following a 22-year restoration led by NMHR volunteers, the locomotive returned to service in 2021 and continues to captivate audiences across the region.

“This isn’t just a locomotive—it’s a rolling classroom and a tribute to the people and industry that helped shape New Mexico,” Casford added. “With NMDOT’s support, we’re opening the throttle on a new chapter of outreach, education, and preservation.”

For more information, visit www.2926.us or follow @2926Steam on social media.

Media Contact:
nmheritagerail@nmheritagerail.com

New Joint Use Agreement with New Mexico Department of Transportation!