AUSTIN, Texas — On Wednesday, Capital Metro broke ground on a new MetroRapid line.
The Pleasant Valley MetroRapid line is one of four new MetroRapid lines approved by voters in November 2020 as part of Project Connect, CapMetro's extensive public transit plan.
The line will run through East Austin from Mueller to the future Goodnight Ranch Park & Ride. It will have 15 stations and include stops at ACC Eastview, Riverside, Dove Springs and McKinney Falls.
CapMetro said the line will enhance the frequency and quality of service for neighborhoods in East and South Austin.
“We are all aware of the growth happening in Austin and how important it is that public transit options are expanded in accordance with that growth,” said CapMetro Board Member and Austin City Council Member Pio Renteria. “Implementing this new MetroRapid route will make it easier for all of us in the East Austin community get to where we need to go with better reliability and frequency.”
CapMetro commissioned artist Jonathan Diaz to work in collaboration with the community to create original artworks that reflects the Dove Springs community and sustainability in public transportation. Diaz has lived in Dove Springs for about 10 years and is familiar with using public transit in his own life.
“From trips to school to trips to work, CapMetro has been one of my favorite things about Austin,” said Diaz. “I viewed Route 7 as an escape vessel, where I could get on and just be taken away. I would usually bring along a sketch pad, drown myself in music and just create. Creating this commemorative print has allowed me to bring together public transportation, art and the Dove Spring community.”
Wednesday's groundbreaking event was held at Krieg Fields. Austin Mayor Steve Adler, U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett and Austin City Council members Pio Renteria (District 3) and Vanessa Fuentes (District 2) all attended. CapMetro President and CEO Randy Clarke, community member Awais Azhar and other elected officials were also present for the ceremony.
The event featured a live music performance by the 80H Project. CapMetro has also commissioned artist Jonathan "Jay" Diaz to create an original artwork that "reflects the Dove Springs community and sustainability in public transportation."
The groundbreaking ceremony started at 10 a.m. Wednesday.
Here is a look at the groundbreaking ceremony:
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