Commuter rail service to Santa Fe will start in two weeks, and rides will be free for Santa Fe County residents during the first three months of service, Gov. Bill Richardson's administration announced Tuesday. 

The Rail Runner Express will begin operating from the Albuquerque area to Santa Fe on Dec. 17. Two days before that, Richardson and other officials will make a ceremonial first train ride.

"This is a historic event that will bring long-term economic benefits to New Mexico and change the way we travel along the middle Rio Grande corridor," Richardson said in a statement. "During these tough economic times, the Rail Runner Express will provide thousands of commuters a much-needed savings while offering them a safe, viable and efficient transportation alternative."

The train has operated between Belen and Bernalillo since July 2006.

Initially, there will be two stops in Santa Fe: at the south Capitol complex near the Transportation Department headquarters and the old Santa Fe depot in the city's railyard, which is several blocks from the downtown area. Two other Santa Fe area stops will be added later.

Transportation Secretary Rhonda Faught estimated there would be nearly 4,500 commuters riding the train daily between Santa Fe and Albuquerque.

Fares will vary depending on the distance that passengers travel. For example, it will cost $8 for a roundtrip between downtown Albuquerque and the initial stops in Santa Fe. A one-way trip from the Santa Fe railyard to downtown Albuquerque is expected to take about 90 minutes, according to a weekday schedule for the train.

Santa Fe County residents can ride the train without charge during the first three months of service by showing a proof of residency, such as a driver's license.