AUSTIN, Texas — A new report from local nonprofit Transit Forward says new CapMetro rapid routes are already starting to make a big difference.
The report was written by Freddie Boehmer, an urban planning student at the University of Texas at Austin, and says the lines are especially important for East Austin, giving residents better access to downtown.
They're expected to make an even bigger impact when the lines eventually reach the airport.
But researchers say there is room for improvement.
One recommendation has to do with more bus-only lanes in busy areas. The report also calls for new stops along Airport Boulevard and changes to how transfers are handled.
Right now, switching buses means paying two separate fees – something most other cities don't do.
“While most attention for Project Connect goes to light rail, it is a wholistic program giving Austinites many new travel options,” said Bill McCamley, Transit Forward's executive director. “Mr. Boehmer illustrates how new MetroRapid lines will improve life for Austinites both directly and through connectivity with existing and future CapMetro services. He also describes how future improvements to these lines even better.”
Transit Forward says it will present more detailed findings at upcoming community meetings.
The full report can be found on the Transit Forward website.
