Downtown Station comes in early and under budget

Capital Metropolitan Transportation Authority announced the opening of the new Downtown Station yesterday – six months early and $3 million under budget. The total budget for the project was $37 million, and the station was slated to open in early 2021. Capital Metro Chief Customer Officer Dottie Watkins noted that added tracks to the station will allow the transportation authority to provide more frequent and reliable service to customers. President and CEO Randy Clarke also spoke at the opening, thanking city and Capital Metro staff for their help in completing the project. “Thank you, thank you, thank you so much for your partnership,” said Clarke, who also thanked nearby businesses and residents for their patience. “Improvements do take a little bit of headache, but they ultimately end up in a beautiful community amenity,” he said. Mayor Steve Adler, who also spoke at the opening, said, “This our future in Austin. Projects like this new downtown station are a testament to Capital Metro’s commitment to serving Austin, everyone’s hard work, and – most significantly – an investment in Austin’s future.” Adler also proclaimed the station would “act as a central hub for the entire Central Texas region.” Those who are so inclined may watch the livestreamed grand opening of the station online.