CapMetro launches two new Rapid lines in East Austin

CapMetro is launching two new rapid bus routes, the 800 Pleasant Valley and 837 Expo Center, beginning this Sunday. These routes are part of the Project Connect initiative aimed at enhancing public transit in economically disadvantaged neighborhoods east of Interstate 35. Although originally planned for 2023 with an all-electric fleet and 10-minute service frequency, the routes will initially operate with diesel vehicles and a 20-30 minute wait time between buses due to delays and challenges in electrification. CapMetro CEO Dottie Watkins emphasized the importance of providing immediate service to the community, despite the scaled-back launch. Full-service, including electric buses arriving every 10 minutes, is expected to roll out in 12-18 months, with construction on additional infrastructure projected to be complete by 2026. The total cost for the new routes is around $100 million, largely funded by a federal grant and local property tax increases approved by voters in 2020.