Austin‑Bergstrom International Airport broke ground on a temporary six‑gate Concourse M, part of the larger Journey with AUS expansion. The new midfield facility will ease passenger congestion while the Barbara Jordan Terminal’s Concourse A is remodeled and future Concourse B and tunnel projects proceed. Concourse M will include a coffee market, grab‑and‑go concessions, retail, restrooms, a pet‑relief room and shaded outdoor areas for travelers using walk‑out gates.
Air‑taxi preparations move forward
City leaders are planning for the arrival of electric vertical take‑off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, commonly called air taxis, which are being deployed nationwide. Under a federal push for advanced aircraft, officials are conducting extensive outreach and planning to ensure safe integration of these vehicles for passenger, cargo and emergency‑response uses.
Real‑time construction information now on mobile
The Capital Metro Transportation Authority launched CTXGO, a free mobile app and website that provides Austinites with live roadway data. Users can view traffic congestion, incidents, electronic message‑sign displays and lane‑closure timelines. The app also offers a trip planner for driving, biking, transit or walking routes, helping commuters make informed travel decisions.
Capital Metro fare increases approved
Capital Metro’s board voted unanimously on Sept. 28 to raise fares beginning Jan. 10, 2027, with a second increase slated for Jan. 2029. Single‑ride fares will rise from $1.25 to $1.50 in 2027 and $2.00 in 2029 for local and pickup services. Commuter (express and rail) fares will go from $3.50 to $4.00 in 2027 and $5.00 in 2029. The CapMetro Access service will increase from $1.75 to $2.25 in 2027 and $3.25 in 2029. Reduced‑fare programs will also see modest hikes.
Georgetown trims rideGTX hours, raises base fee
Georgetown’s ride voucher program, rideGTX, will eliminate overnight service and adjust its base fare to $5, operating from 6 a.m. to midnight. Overnight trips represent roughly 4 % of total rides and include no wheelchair‑accessible trips. The new schedule is projected to save the city about $17,000 annually, while the $1 base‑fare increase is expected to save an additional $62,000 each year.
TxDOT and Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority seek input on 290 toll extension
The Texas Department of Transportation and the Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority are accepting public comments through Oct. 30 on a proposed 15‑mile extension of the 290 Toll. The plan would add tolled main lanes alongside existing non‑tolled lanes, introduce signalized intersections and improve pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure to ease congestion as the region’s population grows. The extension would move the toll’s terminus from near SH 130 in Travis County to east of SH 95 South in Bastrop County.
Georgetown’s ride‑voucher adjustments reflect fiscal prudence
Transportation Manager Lua Saluone emphasized that the changes balance service needs with responsible budgeting, ensuring the program remains sustainable for residents while preserving essential mobility options.
What’s next for Austin commuters?
With the new airport concourse, upcoming fare adjustments, and the rollout of CTXGO, Austinites can expect both short‑term disruptions and long‑term improvements in travel convenience. Residents are encouraged to use the CTXGO app for real‑time updates and to submit feedback on the 290 Toll extension to help shape the region’s transportation future.
Original reporting: Community Impact — Austin — read the source article.
