Austin, Texas, October 23, 2025
News Summary
Travis County Commissioners have authorized a $124,953 study to assess the feasibility of a high-speed commuter rail line connecting Austin to San Antonio. This initiative aims to alleviate the significant congestion on I-35, which commuters have faced for years. Conducted by HNTB Corporation, the study will explore a proposed route between State Highway 130 and Interstate 10, with an expected completion date of March 2026. The total estimated cost for constructing the rail line could reach $40 billion.
AUSTIN, Texas – Travis County Commissioners have unanimously approved a study costing $124,953 to examine the feasibility of a high-speed commuter rail linking Austin to San Antonio. This initiative is part of efforts to improve transportation options as ongoing congestion on I-35 has become a pressing issue for commuters in the region.
The study, conducted by HNTB Corporation, an engineering firm, will evaluate a proposed rail line running between State Highway 130 and Interstate 10. This route aims to significantly ease the commuting challenges faced by residents traveling between the two major cities.
Travis County Commissioner Brigid Shea conveyed enthusiasm for the project, highlighting the community’s demand for alternatives due to the well-known traffic congestions and construction disruptions present on I-35.
In data provided by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), it is projected that the number of miles traveled daily by motor vehicles in Texas could increase by 42% from 2020 to 2050, resulting in delays that may extend from 12 to 36 minutes.
Additionally, TxDOT is conducting another study to explore the addition of a passenger line along an existing railway near I-35, though potential conflicts with the operations of Union Pacific freight trains have been identified.
The proposed alternative high-speed rail line under study may span between 80 to 90 miles, connecting Austin-Bergstrom International Airport to downtown San Antonio. Travis County Judge Andy Brown pointed out the urgent need for dependable commuter rail options, particularly amid ongoing construction issues around the Austin area.
The expected completion date for the study is March 2026, which will coincide with a similar study from TxDOT concerning potential routes along the I-35 corridor. Upon determining the rail line’s feasibility, the study plans to evaluate potential funding partners, which may include Bexar County, and to identify an operator for the proposed rail service.
Initially, discussions about Union Pacific managing operations for the rail line took place but fell through when the company stepped back from responsibility in 2016.
Funding for the construction of the rail line is prominently being sought at the federal level, especially since the entire project is projected to cost around $40 billion, which poses considerable land acquisition challenges.
In conjunction with this push, Amtrak has collaborated with Texas Central on the plans for a high-speed rail route between Dallas and Houston, with support from local officials for the potential connection between Austin and San Antonio. The current study might also facilitate establishing the rail line by utilizing existing rights-of-way along state highways, minimizing the need for extensive land acquisition.
FAQ Section
What is the purpose of the study approved by Travis County Commissioners?
The study aims to explore the feasibility of linking Austin to San Antonio via a high-speed commuter rail.
How much will the study cost?
The study will cost $124,953.
Who is conducting the study?
The study is being conducted by HNTB Corporation, an engineering company.
What is the proposed route for the commuter rail?
The proposed commuter rail would run between State Highway 130 and Interstate 10.
When is the study expected to be complete?
The study is expected to be complete by March 2026.
What are the projected daily travel increases according to TxDOT?
TxDOT projects that the number of miles traveled daily by motor vehicles in the state will grow by 42% between 2020 and 2050.
What challenges are being faced with the existing railway systems?
Conflicts exist with Union Pacific freight trains already using the line TxDOT is studying for a passenger addition.
What is the estimated total cost for the construction of the rail line?
The construction of the rail line is estimated to cost around $40 billion.
Key Features of the Proposed Rail Study
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost of Study | $124,953 |
| Conducted by | HNTB Corporation |
| Proposed Route | Between State Highway 130 and Interstate 10 |
| Study Completion Date | March 2026 |
| Projected Daily Travel Increase | 42% growth from 2020 to 2050 |
| Estimated Rail Line Construction Cost | $40 billion |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- Railway Age
- Wikipedia: Commuter Rail
- Spectrum Local News
- Google Search: Austin San Antonio Commuter Rail
- KVUE News
- Google Scholar: Texas High-Speed Rail
- Austin Monitor
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Rail Transportation Texas
- Travel and Tour World
- Google News: Austin San Antonio Railway Feasibility
Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
The AUSTIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAustinTX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Austin, Travis County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as SXSW, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, and the Austin Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce and Visit Austin, plus leading businesses in technology, automotive, and retail that power the local economy such as Dell Technologies, Tesla, and Apple. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
