Clear Channel Outdoor Partners with CapMetro to Revamp Transit Advertising Strategy in Austin

Transforming Austin's Transit Advertising

Clear Channel Outdoor (CCO), a leader in out-of-home advertising, is set to revolutionize transit advertising across Austin thanks to a newly awarded multi-year contract with CapMetro, the main public transportation authority in the region. This partnership will modernize and expand CapMetro’s advertising program significantly over a span of three years, creating a dynamic media network for brands aiming to connect with millions of residents and visitors in one of the fastest-growing cities in America.

Evolving the Advertising Landscape

Under this exclusive media contract, Clear Channel will manage ad sales for over 400 buses that operate on 71 routes, along with 10 rail stations, catering to more than two million riders monthly. This extensive network is an ideal platform for local and national advertisers seeking visibility in Austin's bustling environment, where technology and creative industries thrive.

“By partnering with CapMetro, we aim to create impactful advertising solutions that connect brands with Austin's vibrant community,” said Michelle Costa, Regional President of Clear Channel Outdoor. As Austin continues to gain recognition as a cultural and economic center, this modernization promises elevated engagement opportunities for brands targeting consumers on the go.

A Boost to Brand Visibility

Clear Channel’s approach toward modernizing CapMetro’s advertising framework includes enhanced creative capabilities, streamlining transition processes, and launching a robust installation strategy by 2026. This will not only enable advertisers to craft high-impact campaigns but also ensure a seamless consumer experience.

Significantly, this partnership builds on CCO's presence at the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, marking a comprehensive strategy where brands can reach potential customers throughout their journey. Combining large-format displays on buses and rail systems provides exceptional visibility, engaging an audience that spans from downtown to neighboring suburbs, ultimately reaching a combined 2.3 million residents and an astounding 30 million annual visitors.

Capturing Attention Amid Digital Fatigue

The partnership is particularly timely as it aligns with the 40th anniversary of SXSW in March 2026, allowing marketers to capitalize on the influx of visitors, creators, and industry leaders. As the public's skepticism towards digital advertising grows, utilizing out-of-home media allows brands to break through the noise and connect with consumers in real-life settings where they live, work, and travel.

Recent studies underscore the importance of out-of-home advertising in addressing today's fragmented media landscape. Kantar's five-year research indicates that out-of-home solutions frequently outperform digital counterparts in critical metrics, serving as a vital piece of contemporary marketing strategies.

CCO has developed a forward-thinking advertising platform that accommodates advertisers by expanding its digital billboards and integrating advanced data analytics, ensuring campaigns are not just widespread but also measurably effective. Leveraging CCO's extensive asset portfolio will undoubtedly connect brands with millions of consumers monthly, setting the stage for successful advertising in Austin’s ever-evolving environment.

Conclusion

As Clear Channel Outdoor embarks on this relationship with CapMetro, Austin residents and commuters can look forward to a transformed experience with transit advertising that is designed to be as dynamic and diverse as the city itself. This partnership will not only enhance advertising efficacy but also enrich the city's marketing ecosystem, solidifying Austin’s position as a leading hub for creativity and digital innovation.

Whether you're a local or just visiting, keep an eye out for what's next on Austin’s bustling transit lines—because the future of advertising is on the move.