Smarter, Safer, Sustainable Commuting Options
If you travel between San Antonio and Austin, you probably cringe thinking about the traffic on I-35, but developers want to cut down travel times for commuters. Both cities are working together to make a 120-mile stretch of I-35 bigger within the next 10 years. Project to cost between $8 billion, $9 billion.
The Texas Department of Transportation has announced $82 million in grants to fund public transportation providers in rural, small urban and large urban areas of Texas.

On June 3, Capital Metro implemented Cap ReMap, the remaking Austin’s transit map and implementation of its biggest changes ever to the bus service. The changes make the system more frequent, more reliable, and better connected. The Capital Metro board of directors approved the changes in 2017 after two years of planning and community input. To plan your trip, visit CapMetro.org. Updates highlights include:

More Frequency More Reliability Better Connectivity
  • 14 High-Frequent Routes
  • More direct routing
  • Routes designed to work as a system
  • Departures at least every 15 minutes
  • Eliminate route deviations
  • Decreased waiting times for you next bus
  • 7 days a week
  • Easier to understand system
  • Riders able to transfer with more confidence

Learn how John commutes smarter, helping our region reduce traffic congestion and vehicle emissions!

“Over 13 years ago when my wife and I (John) decided that we were returning to Austin, it was my desire that we find a home that was on a popular bike route, so I could ride to work from time to time and FM 2244 was one of the best bets. After a few weeks of off and on riding from just outside Bee Cave to Barton Springs Road, I found myself enjoying the morning commute by pedal far more than sitting in a car. I found that I had more energy at work and a far better disposition, at least in the morning.  I have to admit, the location is a top selling point and one not available to all. After a warm, muggy ride downtown, it is a joy to stop by the springs for a quick dip, more than desirable this time of year.

The most common comment I hear from people is about the bad Austin drivers. It is funny, but as a cyclist, I have found that the vast majority of the drivers have either stayed out of my way or have been more than courteous, though you never let your guard down. From my cycling friends, I have heard horror stories about other cities, but I feel the community here is quite supportive and in sync with the active and eclectic lifestyle that is Austin.

If you ever want to start a bike commute, begin with the bike map and try a few routes on the weekends. Be creative as you can probably find gems that help you on your way, like the Walnut Creek or Shoal Creek trails. Find a local cyclery that you can depend on, keep your bike in top form, learn to fix flats and always be alert.”

Thanks, John! Commute Solutions loves that you are able to incorporate transit into your commute and hopes that your story will inspire others to give it a try.

Capital Metro, Central Texas’ transportation agency, will explore automated vehicle (AV) technology through evaluation demonstrations, with testing possibly beginning as soon as late July. If testing goes well, a pilot service is expected to follow later this fall.

The Capital Area Rural Transportation System is providing FREE RIDES July 2nd through July 6th on their Country Bus service. Anyone can ride this reservation-based service for FREE that week.

The CARTS Country Bus is regional community-based transportation for the rural areas of Bastrop, Blanco, Burnet, Caldwell, Hays, Fayette, Lee, Travis and Williamson Counties.

The Country Bus is a flexible service that provides rides locally and to nearby destinations but requires a ride reservation be made in advance. Ideal for seniors, disabled individuals or others requiring special assistance, it is also available to everyone. This community transit service provides curb-to-curb transportation throughout the CARTS district and connects to the regional intercity bus network for extending access beyond local destinations, including Capital Metro and Greyhound.

Enjoy the convenience of having a CARTS bus pick you up at your home, take you to your destination, and then back home again. To schedule your ride call 1-512-478-RIDE (7433). Rides are scheduled Monday thru Friday, from 7:00 am to 4:00 pm. 24-hours advance notice recommended. Local vehicles serve neighboring towns, so ride times may vary. We’ll set up a time for pickup within our time slots of general availability. On your first call we will request information to enter into your customer profile, and after that, we will know you when you call. It’s that simple. The CARTS Country Bus service can help you or someone you know who needs a ride for shopping, city business, medical appointments, work, nutrition visits or any other purpose.

For more information visit RideCARTS.com, email info@RideCARTS.com or contact the call center at 512-478-RIDE (7433).

Cedar Park is driving forward with a study to evaluate its transit needs in the city. On Thursday, City Council approved an agreement with Nelson/Nygaard Consulting Inc. for up to $130,000 for the study.

Rhonda Bolick with Safe Routes to School Program has tips to keep you safe on the streets and the sidewalks.

Lyft is announcing a new version of its app that improves shared rides, integrates directly with cities and transit agencies, and simplifies its passengers’ overall experience.

Capital Metro’s massive bus system overhaul called Cap Remap takes effect Sunday and affects service on more than 50 routes. The overhaul includes increasing bus frequency on several routes, realigning routes as well as eliminating service with low ridership.