Austin Transit Partnership Appoints Contractor for New Light Rail Project to Enhance City Mobility
On February 18, 2026, the Austin Transit Partnership (ATP) made a significant step forward in the construction of Austin's first light rail system by selecting Austin Rail Constructors (ARC) as the designated contractor. This decision marks an essential milestone in the project's trajectory, slated to commence construction in 2027. ATP, which is responsible for the implementation of this pivotal transit infrastructure, aims to meet the increasing demands for mobility in the growing city.
ATP's CEO, Greg Canally, expressed the importance of this milestone, noting that the contract lays the foundation for a multi-billion-dollar investment in the region's transportation landscape. Not only will it enhance the public transit system, but it is also expected to generate thousands of jobs and stimulate local economic growth. The selection of ARC, a joint venture that incorporates both nationally recognized and local firms like Stacy Witbeck and Sundt Construction, underscores the commitment to utilizing top-tier talent for this ambitious project.
ARC will be involved in almost every aspect of the light rail system's development. This includes not only the construction of the transitway and associated tracks but also the stations, bridges, traffic signals, utilities, drainage systems, and streetscape enhancements. With a wealth of experience in complex infrastructure projects, the team behind ARC has previously worked on notable developments such as McKalla Station, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, as well as various national rail projects in states like Arizona, Hawaii, and Utah.
To ensure the project aligns with local needs and fosters economic development, ATP executed a rigorous procurement process within about a year. This entailed gathering industry feedback through a Request for Information phase, which aimed to promote transparency and healthy competition among contractors. To further this effort, ATP hosted 'Connect & Build' events that facilitated networking opportunities between major firms and local businesses, ensuring that Texas-based contractors would have a place in the project’s subcontractor hierarchy.
The approach taken by ATP emphasizes the design-build model, which brings the construction partner into the process early, aiming to streamline coordination and reduce potential costly changes or delays in the construction timeline. Over the next year, ATP will collaborate closely with ARC to refine designs based on community feedback while ensuring that the input on scope, budget, and construction viability is absorbed into the project structure.
This light rail system is projected to feature 15 stations spanning nearly 10 miles, facilitating the use of all-electric trains that will operate at five to ten-minute intervals throughout the day. Designed with the future in mind, the system will be adaptable for future expansions, reflecting ATP's commitment to providing a sustainable transit solution for Austin.
As the city of Austin begins to chart a path toward an improved transportation framework, Mayor Kirk Watson highlighted the significant implications of this partnership. He noted that the contractor selection represents real progress toward delivering the community-supported transit system, thereby creating valuable infrastructure careers for numerous individuals in the region. This selection is not merely an administrative decision, it is an essential stride towards bolstering the city’s economy, enhancing long-term affordability, and ultimately improving mobility for all residents.
For further insights on ATP's procurement initiatives and upcoming opportunities, interested parties can visit their official site at www.atptx.org/build-with-us/
ATP's CEO, Greg Canally, expressed the importance of this milestone, noting that the contract lays the foundation for a multi-billion-dollar investment in the region's transportation landscape. Not only will it enhance the public transit system, but it is also expected to generate thousands of jobs and stimulate local economic growth. The selection of ARC, a joint venture that incorporates both nationally recognized and local firms like Stacy Witbeck and Sundt Construction, underscores the commitment to utilizing top-tier talent for this ambitious project.
ARC will be involved in almost every aspect of the light rail system's development. This includes not only the construction of the transitway and associated tracks but also the stations, bridges, traffic signals, utilities, drainage systems, and streetscape enhancements. With a wealth of experience in complex infrastructure projects, the team behind ARC has previously worked on notable developments such as McKalla Station, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, as well as various national rail projects in states like Arizona, Hawaii, and Utah.
To ensure the project aligns with local needs and fosters economic development, ATP executed a rigorous procurement process within about a year. This entailed gathering industry feedback through a Request for Information phase, which aimed to promote transparency and healthy competition among contractors. To further this effort, ATP hosted 'Connect & Build' events that facilitated networking opportunities between major firms and local businesses, ensuring that Texas-based contractors would have a place in the project’s subcontractor hierarchy.
The approach taken by ATP emphasizes the design-build model, which brings the construction partner into the process early, aiming to streamline coordination and reduce potential costly changes or delays in the construction timeline. Over the next year, ATP will collaborate closely with ARC to refine designs based on community feedback while ensuring that the input on scope, budget, and construction viability is absorbed into the project structure.
This light rail system is projected to feature 15 stations spanning nearly 10 miles, facilitating the use of all-electric trains that will operate at five to ten-minute intervals throughout the day. Designed with the future in mind, the system will be adaptable for future expansions, reflecting ATP's commitment to providing a sustainable transit solution for Austin.
As the city of Austin begins to chart a path toward an improved transportation framework, Mayor Kirk Watson highlighted the significant implications of this partnership. He noted that the contractor selection represents real progress toward delivering the community-supported transit system, thereby creating valuable infrastructure careers for numerous individuals in the region. This selection is not merely an administrative decision, it is an essential stride towards bolstering the city’s economy, enhancing long-term affordability, and ultimately improving mobility for all residents.
For further insights on ATP's procurement initiatives and upcoming opportunities, interested parties can visit their official site at www.atptx.org/build-with-us/
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