ALAMOSA-There is a growing need for ground transportation at the San Luis Valley Regional Airport. This growing concern was part of the discussion at the Alamosa Marketing District and Tourism Board August meeting. Kale Mortensen of the Alamosa Convention and Visitor’s Bureau noted that travelers are coming to Alamosa via air travel, yet there is a growing lack of reliable options for ground travel for passengers once they arrive.

The only vehicle rental service that is currently available for patrons at the SLV Regional Airport is Hertz. However, there is minimal availability of vehicles for Hertz customers. Another option for travelers is the local taxi service, Little Stinkers. The challenge with this option is there have been complaints from customers about long wait times and unreliability.

A growing consensus among members of the Marketing Board is a need to increase the number of available Uber drivers. Currently, there is one in the area. It was also noted that there is a growing interest in the community from individuals who want to become drivers. Another key area of discussion was the possibility of the establishment of an entire new shuttle service in Alamosa. Board member Liz Hensley noted that there is currently not a reliable solution to the need for local transportation and thus encouraged efforts to address the growing challenge.

Furthermore, there is also concern that a lack of transportation will have negative impacts on the economy and local businesses. While there does not seem to be an immediate solution to this issue, local stakeholders seem willing to take the steps necessary to ensure that Alamosa tourism remains steady with hopes that it may even increase. More information on this issue is expected to be forthcoming.