Austin’s first light-rail line will stretch 14 miles, connecting the state capitol office complex to the University of Texas and a new commuter rail line, according to consultants who helped develop a plan for the system expected to go to voters in November.
Voters narrowly rejected a light-rail system for the congested city in 2000, before approving Cap Metro’s commuter rail line to the northern suburbs in 2005. The transit agency bought the track on which the commuter rail will operate. Cap Metro also owns the freight lines that share the track.
Under the plan going to voters, the light-rail system would be built by the city, not Cap Metro.
Last week Austin’s consultant, Roma Design Group, outlined its proposal for the system’s first line. A specific financing plan was not discussed, but the company estimated that light rail could cost anywhere from $20 million to $40 million a mile.
City officials say the appeal of a rail system will grow as gasoline prices approach $4 per gallon.
