An electric train system used in metropolitan areas with stations spaced roughly ½ mile to a mile apart.
Serves as part of the overall transit network, connecting people to key destinations where they live, work and play to improve mobility, connectivity, affordability, and sustainability.
Austin Transit Partnership (ATP)—the independent entity tasked with implementing Project Connect—appreciates the tremendous amount of input we have received from Austinites as we work to expand and improve our public transportation network. Read ATP's staff recommendation for the initial phase of light rail:
In March 2023, ATP commissioned a peer city review to collect insights and aid the development of the light rail implementation plan. The Project Connect: Light Rail Transit Insight Review resulted in five key insights presented to ATP.
Project Connect is a comprehensive transit plan that will transform Central Texas and support our community’s continued growth.
The transformative, voter-approved investment in new transit services includes Light Rail, MetroRapid Bus Lines, Commuter Rail (improvements to existing line and a new line), and Park and Ride facilities.
Project Connect also commits $300 million to mitigate the displacement of vulnerable populations impacted by transit development and construction. The effort represents a collaboration between the City of Austin, Capital Metro Transportation Authority (CapMetro), and the Austin Transit Partnership.
Project Connect is locally funded through the November 2020 voter-approved increase in the City’s property tax rate, certain dedicated funding from CapMetro, as well as anticipated federal funding.
Austin Transit Partnership, which is charged with implementing the light rail component of Project Connect, is committed to transparently delivering on the vision and goals that voters set out in the 2020 election.
Project Connect is a comprehensive transit plan that will transform Central Texas and support our community’s continued growth.
