Austin, February 11, 2026
The City of Austin announced significant developments in Project Connect, a public transit expansion initiative. With funding secured, legal challenges navigated, and project planning underway, this ambitious initiative aims to transform Austin’s transportation landscape. Recent approvals include a $193 million budget aimed at engineering and design activities as the project gears towards a planned groundbreaking in 2027. Community efforts are also underway to ensure housing stability for residents at risk of displacement along the transit corridor.
Austin Residents Get the Latest on Project Connect Progress
Austin, Texas – The City of Austin has released a detailed update on Project Connect, an ambitious public transit expansion initiative that aims to transform the city’s transportation landscape. As the project navigates through critical phases, significant strides have been made in funding availability, legal proceedings, and project planning.
Funding and Budget Approvals
In September 2024, the Austin Transit Partnership approved a budget of $193 million for the upcoming fiscal year, a significant milestone for Project Connect. This allocated funding is set primarily for engineering and design activities, laying the groundwork for a planned groundbreaking in 2027. The budget will utilize $172 million from taxpayer resources along with $21 million from investments and other revenue streams. Notably, around $116 million is designated for professional services and administrative expenditures, while the remainder will be routed towards construction projects.
Legal Developments
A key legal hurdle was crossed in December 2024, when a Travis County judge dismissed a lawsuit that questioned the legitimacy of property tax allocations to Project Connect. Plaintiffs had contended that the set tax rate breached the Texas Tax Code. Although the lawsuit was dismissed, the attorney for the plaintiffs indicated that an appeal was likely.
Project Planning and Design
As of January 2026, the light rail segment of Project Connect has successfully completed a crucial federal environmental review, positioning it closer to obtaining federal financial assistance. This light rail network spans nearly 10 miles and is integral to the broader initiative, which also encompasses enhanced bus rapid transit lines and commuter rail services. The Austin Transit Partnership workers collaborate closely with the City of Austin and the Capital Metropolitan Transportation Authority (CapMetro) on this multifaceted project.
Community Engagement and Anti-Displacement Efforts
In October 2024, the City of Austin’s Housing Department allocated $10.9 million to eight organizations participating in the Community Initiated Solutions (CIS) program associated with Project Connect. This funding is aimed at fostering economic mobility and housing stability for populations at risk of displacement along the transit corridor. An additional $5 million has been earmarked for subsequent funding opportunities.
Background on Project Connect
Project Connect is a wide-ranging transit expansion initiative that received voter approval in November 2020. It encompasses a new light rail system, upgrades to commuter rail services, and expanded bus routes throughout Austin. While the initial project estimate stood at $7.1 billion, various challenges, including legal disputes and budget modifications, have reshaped timelines and financial strategies. Despite these obstacles, the City of Austin remains committed to enhancing its public transportation infrastructure to address the evolving demands of residents.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Project Connect?
Project Connect is a comprehensive transit expansion program approved by Austin voters in November 2020. The plan includes a new light rail system, improved commuter rail services, and expanded bus routes across the city.
What is the current status of Project Connect?
As of January 2026, the light rail component of Project Connect has completed a crucial federal environmental review, bringing it closer to securing federal funding. The project is progressing through key phases, with significant developments in funding, legal proceedings, and project planning.
What is the budget for Project Connect?
In September 2024, the Austin Transit Partnership approved a $193 million budget for the fiscal year, allocated for engineering and design work. The budget comprises $172 million from taxpayer funds and $21 million from investments and other income sources. Approximately $116 million is earmarked for professional services and administrative costs, with the remainder designated for new construction.
Have there been any legal challenges to Project Connect?
Yes, in December 2024, a Travis County judge dismissed a lawsuit challenging the validity of property tax rate allocations to Project Connect. The plaintiffs had argued that the approved tax rate violated the Texas Tax Code. Despite the dismissal, the plaintiffs’ attorney indicated that an appeal is “very likely.”
What is the timeline for Project Connect?
The project is progressing through key phases, with significant developments in funding, legal proceedings, and project planning. The light rail component is expected to break ground in 2027, with passenger service anticipated to begin by 2033.
How is the community being involved in Project Connect?
In October 2024, the City of Austin Housing Department awarded $10.9 million to eight organizations participating in the Project Connect Community Initiated Solutions (CIS) program. This funding aims to promote economic mobility and housing stability for individuals and households vulnerable to displacement along the transit corridor. An additional $5 million is available for future funding rounds.
Key Features of Project Connect
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Light Rail System | A new 9.8-mile light rail system with 15 stations, including downtown Austin, the University of Texas campus, East Riverside Drive, and South Congress. |
| Bus Rapid Transit | Expansion of bus rapid transit lines to improve connectivity and reduce congestion. |
| Commuter Rail Services | Enhancements to existing commuter rail services to better serve the Austin area. |
| Community Initiated Solutions (CIS) Program | Funding awarded to organizations to promote economic mobility and housing stability for individuals vulnerable to displacement along the transit corridor. |
| Budget | Approved $193 million budget for the fiscal year, allocated for engineering and design work, with a planned groundbreaking in 2027. |
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