What is Capital MetroRapid service?
MetroRapid is a new Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) service that brings together a set of unique features to result in faster, more convenient service for the community. Limited stops, boarding from all doors, unique and upgraded stops with real-time bus arrival information, sleek and modern buses equipped with signal priority technology – these and other features will result in greatly improved service on some of the busiest travel corridors in the area, linking to major destinations such as downtown Austin, the state capitol complex and the University of Texas campus from both the north and south.

How does the traffic signal technology work?
As Capital MetroRapid buses approach an intersection, they will send a beam to a signal controller that will either extend a green light a few seconds or change a red light to green a few seconds sooner. Any extra green light time given to the MetroRapid bus will be coordinated with the next signal cycle to ensure that signal synchronization is preserved.

How will Capital MetroRapid affect traffic?
Among the many cities that have implemented signal priority technology, including Los Angeles, Oakland and Vancouver, Canada; the impact to traffic has been minimal. The technology is only used to extend green signals or reduce red signals for a small interval of time, making transit more convenient and attractive for both current and new customers.

What are the routes planned for MetroRapid?
Initial service will begin on two of the busiest corridors: North Lamar/South Congress and Burnet/South Lamar. Capital Metro will continue to develop up to 10 routes for MetroRapid in the next 20 years.

Will Capital MetroRapid service replace current bus service?
The North Lamar/South Congress line will be considered an upgrade to the existing Route 101 by replacing the route. The Burnet/South Lamar line will be in addition to Route 3. MetroRapid routes will connect with local bus and rail service.

Will MetroRapid buses have dedicated lanes?
Initially, MetroRapid buses will not have dedicated lanes system wide. Capital Metro supports the idea of dedicated transit lanes and parking realignment for MetroRapid. However, Capital Metro will have to work in close cooperation with the City of Austin, area merchants and neighborhoods before this could become a reality. Dedicated lanes are a possible upgrade to the service, along with other treatments, such as queue jump lanes, which allow buses to move through busy intersections more quickly.

Where will I catch Capital MetroRapid buses?
MetroRapid stops have been carefully selected to serve popular destinations and large stops in the service area. Capital Metro will design new customer-friendly MetroRapid stops that will be easily distinguishable with a branded logo and colors; and will include real-time bus arrival information. There will be approximately 77 bus stops along the first two lines.

What size buses will be used for MetroRapid?
Capital Metro is planning to use a combination of buses, which include 22 sixty-foot buses for the extremely busy North Lamar/South Congress route and 18 forty-foot buses for the Burnet/South Lamar route.

How much will it cost to ride?
The fare and payment method for MetroRapid is still under consideration by staff.

When will MetroRapid service begin?
Both routes are planned to be in service in 2013.