Bus System Redesign Boosts Ridership in Austin

"In June 2018, CapMetro, Austin's public transit authority, made significant changes to their bus network in choosing to eliminate several bus routes to increase the frequency of others they believe were being used more often," explains Gabriela Vidal.

That kind of bus system redesign, designed for a "high-frequency grid" has achieved traction in recent years, led by the famous example of Houston. Like in Houston, the changes in Austin have had a positive effect on ridership.

"One year later, ridership across their transit system increased over 4.5 percent," reports Vidal. Additionally, "the modified bus routes from the Cap Remap are now serving more low income and minority communities than before."