Austin Transit Partnership has selected Austin Rail Constructors (ARC) as the construction contractor for Austin’s first light rail system, clearing the way for pre-construction work ahead of a planned 2027 start.
ARC is a joint venture between Stacy Witbeck and Sundt Construction. The team will deliver major system elements, including the transitway, tracks, stations, bridges, systems, utilities, drainage, traffic signals, and streetscape improvements.
Design work will be led by a joint venture between Mott MacDonald and Stantec. The design scope includes roadway, structural, track, geotechnical, environmental, and utility relocation work. ATP will advance design and pre-construction activities under the first phase of a multiyear design-build contract.
The project includes a nearly 10-mile alignment with 15 stations, using all-electric trains operating every 5 to 10 minutes for most of the day. Plans include a bridge crossing over Lady Bird Lake and provisions for future system extensions, including potential airport service.
Project costs are estimated at nearly $7 billion. Approximately $3.2 billion is allocated for infrastructure and civil works, with more than $1 billion planned for vehicle procurement and maintenance. Public funding sources include local and federal transit funding, subject to final approvals.
ATP expects construction to begin in 2027, with phased delivery to follow. The project aims to expand high-capacity transit access across central Austin and support long-term mobility and economic growth.