The Austin Transit Partnership’s (ATP) first phase of Austin Light Rail Implementation Plan, running from 38th Street to Oltorf to Yellow Jacket with additional priority extensions, has been approved by all three partners, including the Austin City Council and the Capital Metropolitan Transportation Authority (CapMetro) Board of Directors. The recommendation was initially one of five options revealed in March and was selected after planning data analysis, engineering evaluation and community dialogue came together to identify this plan as the path for light rail that serves the Austin community.
“We’re thrilled we have been approved to move forward with this project and continue with transforming the mobility landscape in Austin,” said Greg Canally, executive director of Austin Transit Partnership. “ATP has been community-minded throughout this entire process, and we thank both the city of Austin and CapMetro for approving the recommendation and in doing so, validating the feedback from our community. This is a big win for Austin, and now that we have been given the green light, we are jumping into the important work to make this vision a reality.”
The ATP was created as the result of a 2020 election in which the voters approved Project Connect and the formation of an independent entity responsible for overseeing the program. Since its inception, it has been working closely with CapMetro and the city of Austin to create a plan for Austin’s first light rail system that integrates well into the existing transit system while planning for the future.
“The people of Austin have led the way to building consensus around this first phase of light rail, which will shape our city for generations to come,” said Mayor of Austin Kirk Watson. “Thanks to their vision and support, we can now move forward with a strong foundation for the future and a solid partnership that is committed to delivering light rail to our community.”
An independent environmental impact study will be conducted, and ATP will continue strategizing with CapMetro, community leaders and the business community to ensure the project advances to enhance the mobility landscape for Austin and central Texas.
“After decades of unwavering commitment by the community and the Austin Transit Partnership Board, these actions today pave the way to do what we’ve been hearing from Austinites who want more transit options. On behalf of the ATP Board, we are excited to continue to work toward making Austin Light Rail a reality and Project Connect a success,” said Veronica Castro de Barrera, chair, ATP.
"CapMetro has worked for the better part of two decades to bring light rail to this community. Today is significant and realizes the efforts of years of work and the tens of thousands of people who have provided input into this process. Delivering safe, reliable and customer-oriented service for our customers is a priority to me. Central Texas has a lot to look forward to when it comes to public transportation,” said Dottie Watkins, CapMetro president and CEO.
