Award recognizes groundbreaking efforts in expanding mobility and community well-being
On March 26, 2025, the Community Advancement Network awarded Project Connect the inaugural Transformational Impact Award during CAN’s 30th Anniversary Celebration at the Austin Community College Rio Grande Campus. Named in honor of CAN’s first executive director, Fred Butler, CAN’s Butler Awards recognize initiatives that bring people, organizations and groups together to address persistent community needs and improve overall well-being.
Project Connect invests in transit projects that are led in partnership by the Austin Transit Partnership, the City of Austin and CapMetro and in collaboration with city and community partners, is transforming mobility, accessibility and creating economic opportunity in Central Texas. By expanding public transit infrastructure to not only include Austin Light Rail Phase 1, but also an expansion of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) and improvements to the existing commuter rail services, Project Connect is addressing Austin’s long-standing challenges related to growth, affordability and equitable access to transportation.
“Austin’s future depends on bold solutions, and Project Connect is the kind of transformational investment that will keep our city moving forward,” said Austin Mayor and ATP Vice Chair Kirk Watson. “This award is a testament to the collaboration and dedication behind this project and to the people working every day to ensure Austin remains an accessible and connected city for all.”
The Butler Awards celebrate those who foster collaboration and drive meaningful change. Since its inception, Project Connect has exemplified these values by bringing together city leaders, transit agencies, community advocates and residents to co-create a mobility system that serves the region for generations to come.
“This award underscores the impact of working together to invest in our community,” said ATP Board Chair Veronica Castro de Barrera. “Project Connect is creating new transit infrastructure with a number of benefits for Austin — offering more options to get places, an engine for jobs and serving as a catalyst for workforce housing.”
“Transportation is a bridge to opportunity, and Project Connect is ensuring that all Austinites—regardless of income or background—have access to jobs, healthcare and essential services,” said Jeffrey Travillion, Travis County commissioner, CapMetro board chair and ATP board member. “We are honored to receive this recognition and remain committed to delivering a system that truly serves the people of Central Texas.”
CAN’s 30th Anniversary Celebration brought together leaders, stakeholders and advocates from across Central Texas to celebrate initiatives that are creating lasting, positive change in the community.
For more information about Project Connect, visit www.projectconnect.com.