Commuters in Bastrop, Georgetown, and Round Rock are about to get a new way into downtown Austin, and it starts with a free ride.
Beginning March 2, the Capital Area Rural Transportation System (CARTS) will launch two new weekday regional commuter bus routes offering express trips into downtown. One line will connect Bastrop and Smithville, while the other will serve Georgetown and Round Rock. CARTS plans to roll out the service with rides free for a limited time as the new routes get up and running.
Routes, stops and schedules
The new Interurban Coach Express routes will operate as Park & Ride services from Bastrop, Smithville, Georgetown, and Round Rock, then run directly into central Austin, including downtown stops. Full route maps, schedules, and station locations are posted on CARTS' website. Riders can also call the CARTS customer line at 512-478-7433 with questions or to go over schedule details.
Why the timing matters
The expansion is part of a regional effort financed through Austin's Climate Pollution Reduction Grant program, a federally backed initiative supported by the Environmental Protection Agency. The goal is to cut transportation-related emissions and ease congestion by giving commuters more ways to leave the car at home.
According to the City of Austin, the CPRG award is intended to help expand transit service and create incentives for people to move away from single-occupancy vehicles. Agencies involved in the project say the funding is also meant to provide alternate commute options as major construction projects in the area continue to move forward.
Free rides and a ribbon cutting
The new commuter trips will be free for a limited introductory period, according to a Georgetown-area news release reported by Community Impact. Riders who have been on the fence about trying regional transit are getting a low-risk way to test the service.
CARTS is also marking the completion of the Smithville Station remodel with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on March 2 at 2:30 p.m., an event highlighted by the Bastrop Chamber.
What CARTS officials say
“These routes are about getting cars off the road and giving people a smarter way to commute,” CARTS General Manager Dave Marsh said. “One bus can replace dozens of single-occupancy vehicles.” His comments were included in local coverage of the launch, according to Community Impact.
How to try it
Service begins March 2. Riders can find route maps, Park & Ride locations, and downloadable schedules on CARTS' routes page or get information by calling 512-478-7433. For event details and local updates on the rollout, residents can check the Bastrop Chamber release and city announcements.
