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Austin Launches Second BRT Line
The Capital Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Capital Metro), Austin, TX, rolled out its second MetroRapid BRT line, Route 803, onto some of the area’s busiest streets on Aug. 24. The first MetroRapid line, Route 801, launched earlier this year.
Route 803 offers frequent service, new vehicles with spacious interiors and free Wi-Fi, and upgraded stations with real-time arrival information. The new 15-mile route features 46 stations, including 12 in downtown it shares with the other line, and serves several college campuses, the city’s museum district, popular shopping destinations, downtown Austin, and the Texas State Capitol.
“Just like the 801, which took to the streets in late January, the 803 lets you explore all of the best things we have in Austin,” said Capital Metro President/Chief Executive Officer Linda S. Watson. “After just seven months, we’re about to provide our one millionth trip on MetroRapid, which indicates people are really enjoying the new ride.”
The day after the beginning of service, FTA Region 6 Administrator Robert Patrick, state and local dignitaries, and officers of the Capital Metro Board of Directors joined more than 125 Capital Metro employees and public transit supporters at a celebration that included vehicle tours at a park in downtown Austin.
The two MetroRapid routes, which roughly form an X across the heart of Austin, operate in approximately 25 percent of Capital Metro’s service area on some of its most heavily trafficked routes.
Capital Metro reported that both MetroRapid lines launched on time and under budget. A $38 million federal grant covered roughly 80 percent of the $47.6 million total project cost.
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At the opening of Capital Metro’s second MetroRapid line, from left, Capital Metro Board Vice Chair and Austin City Council Member Chris Riley, Texas state Rep. Celia Israel, Capital Metro President/CEO Linda S. Watson, FTA Region 6 Administrator Robert Patrick, Capital Metro Board Chair and Austin City Council Member Mike Martinez, Capital Metro Board Member Beverly Silas, and former board member Norm Chafetz.
Photo by Brio Yiapan |
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