AUSTIN, Texas — Capital Metro will have free, extended services on New Year’s Eve.
"Make plans with your friends, your family, go out, enjoy yourself but get home safe," Samantha Alexander, the communications director for CapMetro, said. "We're really proud to offer this service and then people can enjoy the holiday responsibly and have a good option to get around."
The free services begin after 5 p.m. on Tuesday and offer an alternative to ride-share services like Uber and Lyft, which typically have price surges during busy times.
"We know there's a lot of things going around downtown. We want people to be out there in the community, enjoying themselves but doing it safely, so we're here to help do that," Alexander said.
Even if you do choose to take a rideshare service, Austin police say to be careful and be aware of your surroundings.
"When your rideshare comes to pick you up, [make sure] that it's your rideshare. Look at the license plate, identify the driver, the make and model of the vehicle. So that way, whether it's an Uber or a Lyft, you know if it's the correct vehicle," Lieutenant Chris Gwaldo said.
The free New Year’s Eve services are extended to MetroRail, MetroRapid and MetroExpress until 2:30 a.m. and Night Owl routes until 3 a.m.
But CapMetro's buses and trains will operate on a reduced schedule again on New Year’s Day. That means there will be no MetroRail, Pickup, UT Shuttle, Night Owl, E-Bus or MetroExpress services.
More information about the New Year’s Eve service schedule can be found on the CapMetro website.
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