“We usually see the largest spike [in ridership] on MetroRail and have to have overflow buses, so we’re trying to promote other services like local bus,” said Sam Sargent, Capital Metro’s community involvement coordinator.
Capital Metro staffers will be on-site during SXSW to help residents and visitors access public transit.
“It’s the most cost-effective way to get around,” Sargent said.
Ways to ride
MetroRapid
Extended service: MetroRapid bus routes 801 and 803 have extended service until 2:30 a.m. March 10-11 and 17-18 and until 12:30 a.m. March 12.
Cost: $1.25 for single ride, $2.50 for a day pass
Tips: Take MetroRapid instead of MetroRail to avoid crowds. Purchase tickets via the Capital Metro mobile app.
MetroRail
Extended service: Trains will depart from the Leander station before noon and before 10:30 a.m. from the Kramer station March 11-12. The last trains leave downtown at 2:30 a.m. March 10-12 and 16-18.
Cost: $3.50 for a single ride, $7 for a day pass
Tips: Because trains are typically packed during SXSW, Capital Metro offers overflow buses from 9 a.m.-2:30 a.m. most days. MetroRail ticket vending machines are cash-only, but credit cards are accepted on Capital Metro’s mobile app.
Night Owl busesExtended service: Buses will operate from midnight until just after 3 a.m. from popular late-night destinations in downtown Austin, including along Sixth, Guadalupe and Lavaca streets. Buses will operate about every 15-20 minutes.
Cost: $1.25 for a single ride
Destinations: These include Ben White Boulevard and Manchaca Road, Pleasant Valley Road and William Cannon Drive, Oltorf Street and Wickersham Lane, Rundberg Lane and North Lamar Boulevard, Oak Springs Drive and Airport Boulevard, and Rutherford Lane and Cameron Road.
Capital Metro detours
During SXSW several local bus routes that operate though downtown Austin will be detoured because of road closures. Riders are encouraged to check Capital Metro's service alerts and plan ahead.
