The Austin Transit Partnership on Tuesday announced the organization’s official Austin Light Rail staff recommendation: 38th Street to Oltorf to Yellow Jacket, which will serve as the first phase of the Austin Light Rail Implementation Plan.
“The Austin Transit Partnership is proud and excited to recommend the 38th Street to Oltorf to Yellow Jacket option as we work to create a transit network that propels Austin toward becoming a city that is more affordable and connected. This option best reflects the needs and values of the Austin community and lays the best foundation for future expansions and extensions in all three directions,” Greg Canally, executive director of ATP, said. “We heard support from community and advocacy groups for this option as it provides critical connections for people, and we are proud to listen to and take into account that feedback.”
Prior to making its recommendation, ATP presented the five proposed options on March 21 to the public. This was followed by a six-week long, community engagement process.
“For more than twenty years, Austin has tried to build a light rail system that brings our community closer together and today, we know what will be built for this community, and by this community, in this first phase of Austin Light Rail Implementation,” Mayor Kirk Watson said. “When we come together to solve big problems, we can do big things, and having a light rail system that is equitable, reliable and affordable that is built by the people of Austin, is the definition of a big thing. I look forward to advancing this recommendation and seeing the people of Austin get to work on a transformational project.”
The 38th Street to Oltorf to Yellow Jacket option is an on-street, two-line light rail that will cross Lady Bird Lake at Trinity Street.
To view ATP’s staff recommendation, please visit http://www.atptx.org/.
