LoboLift launches to enhance evening safety on central campus

UNM students are taking the lead in reimagining campus safety and mobility through LoboLift - a revitalized, student-driven program offering free, peer-to-peer, on-demand rides after dark on UNM's central campus.

Created through collaboration between the Associated Students of The University of New Mexico (ASUNM) and UNM Parking & Transportation Services (PATS), and supported by funding from the New Mexico State Legislature and the UNM President's Office, LoboLift is powered by trained student employees who provide a safe, convenient transportation option designed by students and for students.

Whether you're studying late at the library, heading home from an evening club meeting, or simply moving across campus after dark, LoboLift is just a phone call away. Call (505) 706-3430, to request a ride, and a trained student employee will be dispatched to your location on Central Campus.

"This project is an example of students and the community working together. From a student initiative to the New Mexico Legislature, then back to the President's Office, to say it is incredible would be an understatement. Over four years and four different student government administrations have worked to put the necessary pieces into place." said Andrew Norton, ASUNM President. "Our administration worked to ensure this student initiative was finally launched in a time when we believe it can best benefit the general student body.

"This was only possible thanks to President Stokes, Student Regent Reyes, Ryan Lindquist, and PATS alongside our ASUNM advisors, senators, and Vice President Hope Montoya. All of these people represent just how great of a culture we have here at UNM. An environment of people all willing to solve an issue together, no matter the obstacle. I am truly excited for this service to be provided to our Lobos!"

The LoboLift pilot service will launch at the start of the semester on Tuesday, Jan. 20 and will run through June 30, 2026. During the pilot period, PATS will collect ridership data and feedback to evaluate the service and inform decisions about continued funding and future operations.

What you need to know

Who Can Ride?

• LoboLift is available to current UNM students, staff, and faculty-including commuter students. If you're commuting, you can take advantage of UNM PATS' 3:45 p.m. Rule, which allows most commuter and proximity parking permits to be used in regular spaces in designated main campus lots after 3:45 p.m. on weekdays. This means you can park on central campus in the evening and use LoboLift to reach other locations, such as libraries, labs, or meeting rooms, after dark. Learn more about the 3:45 p.m. Rule.
• A valid UNM LoboID is verified prior to dispatching a driver. Due to program requirements, PATS cannot transport friends, guests, or individuals who are not part of the UNM community. A valid UNM LoboID is required. This ensures the service remains safe and dedicated to UNM students and employees.

Hours of Operation

• Monday through Friday, 6 to 11 p.m.
• Last pickup at 10:45 p.m.

Service Area

• Central Campus only between Central Avenue and Lomas Boulevard and University Boulevard and Girard Boulevard
• No service is provided across city streets
• View the Interactive Campus Mapshowing the service area is available online.
• Common destinations include:
  • UNM residence halls and Casas del Rio, Johnson Center, University Libraries, Duck Pond, Central Campus parking lots, Greek Life housing, UNM Bookstore, Student Union Building, etc.

Riders must be able to board and exit the vehicle independently or with their own assistance.

Key program highlights include:

• Free to use for all current UNM students, staff, and faculty with valid UNM LoboID
• Operated by trained student employees during service hours
• Serves Central Campus locations only

For more information about LoboLift, including service hours, eligibility, and the service area map, visit the LoboLiftpage on the UNM Parking & Transportation Services website.