While Capital MetroRail may have experienced some growing pains over the years, it has now come into its own. The Red Line consists of nine stops over a 32-mile line, and connects downtown Austin to several destinations along the route to Leander in the northwest.
Capital MetroRail: A Brief History
The history of Capital MetroRail dates back to the Energy Crisis in the 1970s, when mass transit buffs began advocating for a passenger rail system in the Austin metro area. The Capital Metro transit system (“Cap Metro” to locals) finally came about in the mid-1980s, connecting the city by bus with the possibility for a passenger rail system in the future. Cap Metro even bought the necessary railway, but circumstances delayed implementation.
The Texas Legislature drafted a proposal in 2000 which was developed and finally presented in its successful form to city residents in 2004. Work began on making light rail a reality for Austin, and on March 22, 2010, the first trains began operating.
MetroRail Makes Its First Appearance
Initial ridership was high, though it gradually tapered off. But Capital Metro retooled its train schedules and ticket prices to increase ridership. These adjustments, including running trains on weekends, has helped to build a steadily growing passenger base.
The multitude of large events and festivals scheduled in Austin throughout the year are a boon to the rail system. South by Southwest (SXSW), the annual music/film/art/interactive festival, brings an exponential influx of new riders who are eager to dodge the nightmare of downtown traffic. More riders opting to travel by MetroRail ultimately reduces the amount of traffic clogging the city’s major traffic arteries.
The Red Line has nine stops, beginning in Leander and terminating at the Austin Convention Center downtown. The train travels a path that zips its way through northwest, north-central, and east Austin before reaching downtown. There are future plans for a Green Line to extend coverage to the west toward Elgin, and another line that will service the Round Rock area north of the city.
MetroRail’s Bright Future
These service extensions are expected to help relieve some of the congestion around the city. Riders boarding at the Leander, Lakeline, and Howard stations enjoy dedicated Park & Ride lots, and parking near the other stations is convenient as well. Tickets are also easy to purchase, with kiosks at every stop, as well as the option to purchase tickets and value passes online or at various retail outlets around the city.
MetroRail has proven itself to be a great transit option. Whether you’re commuting to work, or just looking for safe passage after a night on the town, the Capital MetroRail Red Line will make sure you’re well taken care of.