CapMetro has exciting news for Austin transit users – two new rapid bus lines are set to launch in spring 2025 as part of the Project Connect mass transit expansion program. The Pleasant Valley line will run from Goodnight Ranch to Barbara Jordan, passing through key destinations like Mueller neighborhood and Austin Community College’s Eastview campus. On the other hand, the Expo Center line will connect Republic Square in downtown Austin to the Travis County Expo Center, with links to existing MetroRapid lines and the Red Line.
Initially, diesel vehicles will be used on these new lines, with plans to transition to zero-emission vehicles in the future. Dottie Watkins, CapMetro’s president and CEO, highlighted the importance of federal funding in making these new services possible. The Federal Transit Administration’s $65 million Small Starts grant has been instrumental in covering a significant portion of the project costs.
To accommodate the new rapid bus lines, larger stations will be built to operate as multi-modal hubs supporting various transit users. The FTA grant has made the upfront costs more manageable, allowing for the addition of new vehicles to the system. While some stations and Park & Ride facilities will be under construction initially, temporary stops will be available for customers to use.
Once operational, the Pleasant Valley and Expo Center lines will run at 20-minute intervals during most of the day, with a reduced frequency in the late evening hours. Testing will be conducted to ensure the routes and schedules are functioning correctly before the official launch. While a firm launch date has not been set, more details will be shared as the spring 2025 deadline approaches.
These new additions to the CapMetro system are a significant step towards enhancing Austin’s mass transit network. The focus on building a comprehensive system that includes buses, rail, and light rail is crucial to providing a seamless and accessible transportation experience for riders. By expanding high-frequency bus services in addition to light rail, CapMetro aims to create a well-connected transit network that serves the community effectively.