Summary
Many Austin visitors are surprised to learn how limited Austin’s Capital MetroRail system is. It comprises only one 32-mile route starting in Leander, a few miles northwest of Austin, and ending in downtown. Since the system primarily caters to commuters, there are usually not many late-night and weekend routes available. However, during major events such as SXSW and Austin City Limits Music Festival, the schedule expands to accommodate higher demand.
The train is clean, comfortable, and usually punctual. If you can navigate around Capital MetroRail’s somewhat limited schedule, it is one of the best ways for visitors to travel around Austin. In conjunction with the Capital Metro bus system, you can reach almost any location in Austin at an affordable price. Moreover, the bus system features a user-friendly app that allows passengers to purchase passes directly from their smartphones.
Safety Improvements
As of May 2018, safety improvements are underway on the red line to incorporate new technology mandated by the federal government. Most riders appreciate the inconvenience because Positive Train Control (PTC) technology can help prevent the kinds of accidents that have occurred recently in the northeast corridor. Although many changes have already been implemented, a months-long testing phase is still ahead.
Costs
You can acquire your pass online or at any train station. One-way fares start at $3.50, but you can receive significant discounts if you intend to ride the train for several days.
Stations and Nearby Landmarks
Leander, 800 N. Hwy 183. The northernmost station is located in a residential area near FM 2243. It is adjacent to a 600-space parking lot.
Lakeline, 13625 Lyndhurst Boulevard, Cedar Park. This station is widely used by employees of Applied Materials and is located near the Avery Ranch neighborhood and Lakeline Mall.
Howard, 3705 West Howard Lane. Positioned near the MoPac Expressway, the Howard Station is the first station within the Austin city limits. It features an adjoining parking lot with 200 spaces. A considerable employer in the area is Hospira, a pharmaceutical and medical device company. The largest nearby neighborhood is Wells Branch.
Highland, 6420 1/2 Airport Boulevard. The former Highland Mall building, located a few blocks from the station, is mainly occupied by Austin Community College, making this a popular stop for students. Additionally, a Texas Department of Public Safety office is situated near the MetroRail station.
MLK, Jr., 1719 Alexander Boulevard. This station is located a few blocks east of the University of Texas campus, frequently used by students and professors. It is also close to UT’s Disch-Falk baseball stadium.
Plaza Saltillo, 412 Comal Street. Located in east Austin, the Plaza Saltillo station is near many of the area’s popular bars, such as The White Horse. It is only a few blocks away from the 6th Street entertainment district.
Downtown, 401 East 4th Street. This station is located next to the north side of the Austin Convention Center and is within walking distance of most downtown attractions. It is near the 2nd Street shopping district and the Warehouse District, which hosts many of Austin’s popular gay bars.
Future Plans
Plans for enhancing Austin’s light rail system seem to emerge and fade every couple of years. However, one plan appears to be gaining momentum. This line would stretch from Republic Square Park in downtown to South Congress Avenue and then south to Slaughter. As the existing line runs north to Cedar Park, extending south to far-south Austin makes logical sense. Another proposition includes a line along East Riverside, ultimately reaching the Airport in southeast Austin. Additionally, an east-west route along East 7th and Lake Austin Boulevard has been proposed. City leaders are keen to better coordinate rail and bus services. A common challenge is the “last mile,” which refers to the distance between an individual’s home and the nearest rail or bus stop. One pilot program envisions offering free rides from homes to bus stops using Austin’s non-profit ride-sharing service, Ride Austin. However, the most economical proposed rail plan exceeds $1.5 billion, which may make voters hesitant to support such an ambitious project.
