About the Project
Austin Light Rail is a $7.1 billion, 9.8-mile electric train system designed to connect high-density areas in Austin, Texas, including downtown, University of Texas, the hike-and-bike trail, South Congress and East Riverside. With 15 stations and street-level tracks throughout the rail line, it aims to provide rapid transit for Austinites through the city’s central corridor.
Expected Impacts
The rail line will span across 85 acres, displacing numerous residences and businesses along the project path. Additional acquisitions for supporting infrastructure include park-and-ride facilities, substations and an operations facility near the Austin-Bergstrom Airport to accompany the rail line construction.
Project Background
Austin Light Rail project began in 2020 when Austin voters approved a city-wide light rail system called Project Connect. The City of Austin established Austin Transit Partnership to plan, design, construct and implement the system, which was pared down to a single rail line in 2023 due to budget constraints.
Estimated Timeline
- Design completion: 2026
- Right-of-way acquisition start: 2027
- Construction start: 2027
- Construction completion: 2033
Additional Resources
Related Blogs
- January 2026 –Austin Light Rail Project Moves Closer to Reality
- February 2025 – Austin Light Rail Project Moves Forward While Businesses and Homes Face Displacement
- January 2024 – Austin’s Project Connect Continues Despite Legal Setbacks
- April 2023 – Plans for Austin’s Light Rail Project Significantly Reduced
To speak to an experienced eminent domain and condemnation attorney about the Austin Light Rail project, call Barron, Adler, Clough & Oddo, PLLC at (512) 478-4995 or fill out the contact form on the right side of this page.