Capital Metro's (CapMetro) Project Connect team broke ground Feb. 16 on the MetroRapid Pleasant Valley Route.
This new route is one of four new MetroRapid routes included in the Project Connect program of projects and will run through East Austin from Mueller to the future Goodnight Ranch Park & Ride. It will have 15 stations and include stops at ACC Eastview, Riverside, Dove Springs and McKinney Falls. The route will enhance frequency and quality of service for neighborhoods in East and South Austin.
“To propel our growing economy forward for all Austinites, we’re building a more connected community that opens up new opportunities to all our neighbors,” said U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett (D-TX-35). “This new MetroRapid route does just that, providing new, convenient and affordable access to jobs and neighborhoods for all.”
Also present at the ceremony were Texas Representative Eddie Rodriguez; ATP Board Member and Austin Mayor Steve Adler; Travis County Attorney Delia Garza; CapMetro Board Member and Austin City Council Member Sabino “Pio” Renteria; Austin City Council Member Vanessa Fuentes; Constable George Morales; and CapMetro President and CEO Randy Clarke. Also present were MetroRapid customers and community members.
“We are all aware of the growth happening in Austin and how important it is that public transit options are expanded in accordance with that growth,” said Renteria. “Implementing this new MetroRapid route will make it easier for all of us in the East Austin community get to where we need to go with better reliability and frequency.”
CapMetro commissioned artist Jonathan “Jay” Diaz to work in collaboration with the community to create original artwork that reflects the Dove Springs community and sustainability in public transportation. Jonathan has lived in Dove Springs for approximately 10 years and spent a significant amount of his life using public transportation.
“From trips to school to trips to work, CapMetro has been one of my favorite things about Austin,” said Diaz. “I viewed route 7 as an escape vessel, where I could get on and just be taken away. I would usually bring along a sketch pad, drown myself in music and just create. Creating this commemorative print has allowed me to bring together public transportation, art and the Dove Spring community.”
Diaz was present at the ceremony, and his artwork was on display. Juan in a Million provided refreshments for participants and guests.
