Transit Forward

2024 Candidate Questionnaire

  1. How will you work with Cap Metro to help build better bus capacity, reliability, and frequency so that transit becomes a
    more reasonable option for more Austinites?
  2. In the last year, the Austin City Council passed major changes to land use policy aimed at creating more housing supply, affordability, and accessibility for Austinites. These include the HOME 1, HOME 2, DB90 incentives, Compatibility Reform, and Equitable Transit Oriented Development changes. Much of these are aimed at creating more opportunity for people to live near train and bus stops affordably, allowing for more effective transit and giving the Austin Transit Partnership and Cap Metro better opportunities for Federal funding. If elected, will you work to keep these changes moving forward, or will you vote to reverse them?
  3. What is your view about the lawsuit being pursued by an alliance of a few local anti-transit advocates, the State Attorney General, and groups like the Heritage Foundation and Texas Public Policy Foundation in trying to stop Austin from building Project Connect (light rail system, improvements to the Red Line commuter rail, expanded Pickup services, increased rapid transit bus lines, and affordable housing development) that remains overwhelmingly supported by Austin voters? If elected, will you support them or will you continue to direct the City in defending the Austin electorate and their wishes?
  4. Central TX is growing, and many people (mechanics, health care professionals, teachers, etc) have moved out of the central city but still commute for essential work. As an Austin elected official, how would you propose to work with regional partners to increase access for more transit options for the greater Central Texas region?

Mayor

District 2

District 4

District 6

District 7

District 10

Mayor

Jeff Bowen

  1. I am a member of the Project Connect Ambassadors Network (PCAN) from the very first meeting. The group has not met in quite a while. There are several ideas that need to be explored and have public comments on. Will work with all members on solutions to meet Austin’s Transit for now and the needs for the future.
  2. Currently, at this point in time DB90 is meeting opposition from all parts of the city. The “Rules” are still being written and changed without any transparency or clarity. Also many of the “ETOD Zones extend farther into the neighborhoods than originally indicated to the public. How can an elected official answer the question when there are so many outstanding issues regarding just these two issues. Should any of these violate state or federal laws, then those issues will have to be corrected first.In the question regarding “affordably”, there is no proof to that statement. Affordable to WHO?

    In regards to “better opportunities for Federal funding”. That has yet to be proven also at this point.

  3. First, “a few local anti-transit advocates”. I do not consider Former Senator Gonzalo Barrientos, former City Council Woman Ora Houston, County Commissioner Margaret Gomez and Susana Almanza and Dirty Martin’s anti-transit advocates. These individuals are or were public leaders. Based on your definition does that mean “anyone” questioning this system is Anti-transit advocates?Based on the court documents the State Attorney General is dealing with this regarding the issue of bonds in which Austin Transit Partnership is seeking BONDS in order to REIMBURSE themselves 150 million in expenses.

    As for the Heritage Foundation and Texas Public Policy Foundation they are not involved in the lawsuit.

    The “Red Line” was not part of the Project Connect vote. Why are you indicating that it was part of the project?

    Regarding Pickup – CapMetro has expanded the service. Not fast enough in my opinion. The expansion of the service needs to be expedited. This too is not part of the lawsuit.

    Isn’t the increase in Rapid Transit Bus lines awaiting the Electric Buses that were ordered and the company filed bankruptcy? Yet there is NO Status of the money spent for said buses or the actual buses. Why?

    Apparently 100 million of the 300 million displacement funds have already been spent. Where is the transparency on that issue? Overwhelming vote. For the original project, not the current plan.

    I cannot provide an answer on a question in which the courts have to determine where this situation will land.

  4. Listen to the citizen’s request for transit options. On Demand Transit is a hopeful solution which is being used in different portions of the United States and should be considered in Austin as well.

Doug Greco

  1. We need to both make sure Cap Metro has the capacity to service existing bus lines well, and to also ensure Project Connect gives Cap Metro the capacity to service the new bus lines effectively as well. We need to listen to the concerns of the Amalgamated Transit Union, who represent the drivers that keep our routes running, that want a better contract with higher pay, better working conditions, and a local connection. With a stronger contract, we can hire more bus operators and mechanics and reduce changeover times and lessen the burden on our current workforce.

    Right now, our bus operators earn less than their counterparts in San Antonio and Houston, where the cost of living is lower. And the majority of operators and mechanics cannot afford to live in the city.

  2. Austin’s affordability crisis is pushing families out of Austin and out of the middle class. This displacement has been happening for decades. Housing is the largest cost-driver for families in Austin. I support robust investments in affordable housing, mortgage and rental assistance, permanent housing for those experiencing homelessness, partnering with our nonprofit partners who develop housing, and strong anti-displacement measures. I support updates to the land use code to increase the supply of housing at different income levels, especially around transit corridors and public transit. I would have fought for stronger anti-displacement measures alongside the reforms, but I will fight for them once in office.The affordability issue is compounded by the outsized role of institutional investors and private equity crowding out families from the housing market.

    They account for almost 40% of home purchases in Austin. As mayor, I will fight to ensure the housing and land use policy changes made benefit those who live here, and plan to live here, not private equity. Austinites, not hedge funds, will be the key to keeping the neighborhood-friendly charm of the Austin we cherish.

  3. I support Project Connect, and believe it is important because of its impact on quality of life, the environment, and the good blue collar jobs that result. Though it is scaled back from its original plan, I will be the Mayor that brings Project Connect in on time and on budget. I don’t plan to support the lawsuit, but if there is a court ruling that overturns the current Project Connect, I am committed to working with council and taxpayers to put a viable public transit package together and put it before voters. Austin needs to join the ranks of cities with a mature transit system.
  4. I was the Executive Director for Central Texas Interfaith, a five-county organization with deep relationships with public officials and community leaders across the region. We expanded the organization beyond Austin specifically because working families were being pushed out. I’ve worked with government officials across these counties and would leverage these relationships to work with regional partners. We must also continue fighting for equity on the CAMPO policy board to make sure Austin is fairly represented. Finally, we must ensure that our regional transit system is accessible and affordable for working families.

Carmen Llanes Pulido

  1. I will engage in productive dialogue with Cap Metro leadership and frontline staff, including the union and frontline workers, and I will center the voices of those most directly impacted by changes to Cap Metro service.

    With respect to CAMPO representation, I would advocate for representation of areas needing transit improvements the most, and create paths to public engagement with these representatives. There is a lot we can learn from the 30,000 or so Austinites who regularly depend on public transit, so that we can prioritize changes that improve service. I would explore a public option for on-demand transit that can compete with private rideshare companies at a lower cost to riders, and advocate for immediate changes that increase public trust in Cap Metro and increase ridership. I would advocate for immediate expenditures that deliver on service to areas that need more frequency and stops, which can be done regardless of any legal challenges to current Project Connect implementation, and which I believe would increase public support for Project Connect’s full implementation. I have a track record of this kind of organizing in other areas like pedestrian infrastructure, drainage infrastructure, lighting of public areas, and more, and I know that driving small, incremental progress inequitable infrastructure improvements increased public faith and engagement in our institutions and builds more patience for the longer term improvements toward which we we are working.

  2. In order to give CapMetro strong opportunities for Federal Funding, I’d be open to restructuring these with more criteria for the FTA funding in mind, particularly to create more affordability and true income diversity. I think it’s important to define which “people” we are prioritizing for accessibility to transit. HOME 1 and 2 do not prioritize housing near transit since they are blanket zoning changes that do not necessitate proximity to transit lines in order to increase access to entitlements. DB90 gives away building entitlements with no on-site affordability requirement, no time commitment for affordability, and very minimal requirement to pay a fee. Elimination of compatibility standards can support additional housing units, but doesn’t require it or guarantee that new buildings will deliver any housing at all. And ETODs unfortunately were passed with no protection of existing affordable multifamily housing, which means we are likely to see the existing transit users (who don’t depend on cars now) displaced to areas where they will become more car dependent. The current approach focuses on expensive redevelopment in areas where public transit is now accessible by bus, with no focus on commuters or service to people from outside of the central city. We can learn lessons from the Saltillo Plaza and redevelopment scheme: without strong affordability protections, ridership in the area decreased despite population increase. I would prioritize equity and look at existing transit users and how to expand access and frequency where people live, now. I’ve heard from multiple downtown and central city residents who are pro-density, living in dense multi-unit developments, asking that the city increase service before building more units, because the situation is becoming untenable even for those who depend on public transit.
  3. With respect to labeling the local advocates as “anti-transit,” I think it’s important to note that considerable a number of attorneys and plaintiffs involved in the lawsuit actually voted in favor of the Project Connect ballot item in 2020, are Democrats, and have been motivated to challenge the process specifically because of the lack of public transit service being delivered by the current implementation. There is also no provision in this lawsuit that would inhibit pursuit of rapid transit bus lines or pickup services, which are services that can immediately be expanded, and that I believe should be expanded, in order to increase service where it is most needed. If elected, I will absolutely direct the City in defending the Austin electorate and their wishes—outlined in the 2020 contract with the voters—and lead a transparent conversation about costs, benefits, and equitable services across the city, so that we can find the best way to proceed and deliver on the robust transit services that Austinites deserve
  4. I would engage in good faith dialogue with elected officials in the region, including with CAMPO, and advocate for diverse representation and engagement to emphasize the needs of commuters I am grateful for the progress made with the 2045 Regional Active Transportation Plan documenting assets and needs for active transportation, but I still see a lack of representation of the needs of current and future commuters who cannot bike to work, particularly from Southeast Austin, which has developed rapidly with little to no small area or regional planning, and lacks direct routes and commuter transit. I would engage directly impacted communities in these and other rapidly growing areas and identify opportunities for commuter transit, especially from the Eastern Crescent, which has just as many if not more commuters coming in and out of Austin, where displacement of the professionals mentioned above is highest, and where there continues to be a lack or a delay in priority for increased transit service. If we bring more voices to the table and ensure more equitable representation, I think we can make steady progress in reducing car dependency on existing corridors and reducing the economic burden of toll roads on moderate and low-income communities.

Kathie Tovo

  1. As Mayor, I will work with the Austin City Council appointees to the Capital Metro Board to make sure that the transit agency board is aware of the constituent feedback that the Council hears regularly about the need for particular route or other improvements and will advocate that the board create a platform to post responses to customer comments as an accountability measure.

    Taking the Council-approved Educational Impact Statement as a model (an idea I helped lead into fruition and which is now a part of the zoning process), the City should contemplate creating a similar tool for our transit agency to help the staff and board be informed in advance about large developments or redevelopments, in addition to other code changes that could increase or decrease ridership on particular bus routes.

  2. Austin needs to continue to build housing to accommodate current and future residents— which is why I have supported density along the corridors and, before leaving Council, passed two resolutions (20200409-080 and 20211209-064, directing staff to return to Council with (1) ordinance changes to make it easier to build accessory dwelling units (ADUs) across the city and (2) a loan program for low- and moderate-income Austinites so that they could access the capital needed to build ADUs. These density increases had a lot of support in the community. It’s also worth noting that in the last several years, the Austin area has had one of the highest apartment construction rates in the country—and achieved these high numbers of new units within the zoning entitlements that existed prior to the major changes passedby the current Council.

    Instead of following up on the Council-approved direction—including implementing the loan program staff should have already created—and proceeding with a more balanced approach that enjoyed broad-based community support, the Mayor and Council issued *another* call for the creation of a loan program and codified HOME1 and 2 and other zoning major changes that will primarily benefit investors—including those who wish to operate short-term rentals. Affordable housing requirements are non-existent in HOME and weak in DB90 (paying into a fund rather than building units on-site), despite the significant increase in entitlements.

    I agree with those who have argued that these changes will increase gentrification and displacement in communities of color and pose environmental risks in terms of the potential to increase flooding and wildfires and to exacerbate the heat island effect, especially in the Eastern Crescent, which will almost certainly be the first area developers target for these changes.

    As I have indicated elsewhere, the Council should immediately mitigate some of the harm from H.O.M.E. by at least doing the following:
    • Implement an Equity Overlay and either exclude properties that fall within it or work with the impacted communities to craft tailored policies. As Mayor Pro Tem I co-sponsored creation of the “Uprooted” displacement analysis and supported the Equity/Anti-Displacement Overlay in 2019 during CodeNEXT. We need to ensure that families who desire to grow in their neighborhoods have the opportunity to experience housing stability and the right to stay and create generational wealth.
    • Pass strong code requirements to protect resident safety and property within the Wildland Urban Interface areas.
    • Prohibit investor-owned short-term rentals in all properties using H.O.M.E.
    entitlements (currently, at least 2/3 units on a 3-unit property can be short term rentals 100% of the time).
    • Require all STR platforms to include license numbers in rental listings (as
    directed in my Council-approved resolution from Fall 2022).
    • Reconstruct H.O.M.E. as a density bonus program, add a fee, or find another legal
    option for capturing an affordable housing or rental assistance benefit from
    properties adding a third unit.
    • Commit a designated amount to upgrading water lines and other critical
    infrastructure in areas where permits are being filed.

  3. I supported Project Connect and will continue to do so, including supporting the majority will of voters who approved the tax rate election to fund the system. Like so many others, I am disappointed that Project Connect has been scaled back as we need a public transit system that will serve the whole city; all Austinites to have that option of getting out of their cars to get to essential places and such a system will now take more time to achieve.

    I’ve supported public transit even when it was politically unpopular (for example in the 2014 election when nearly every candidate running opposed the rail bond), and I remai a strong supporter. I regard Project Connect as necessary for our environment and, if we can hold down the fares sufficiently, as a cost-saving for family budgets. If the courts decide the matter in the City’s favor, I support moving forward in building a rail system right away, as the costs will only increase with time. As with any other public project with which the City is involved, Project Connect must proceed with full financial transparency and extensive community engagement.

  4. As Mayor, I would participate in the various intergovernmental bodies that exist to make sure that as we’re building out Austin’s transit network, we are also collaborating with our area partners to build connections among local and regional systems (including connections with other major Texas cities).

Kirk Watson

  1. Cap Metro has done a great job over the last year moving forward with MetroRapid projects at Pleasant Valley and Expo locations, the opening of the McKalla Station on the red line, and the revamped Metrobike program. I want to continue working with them to ensure we are moving forward with the MetroRapid project to serve a very important part of our city. Additionally, I believe that the City of Austin and Cap Metro must be in constant contact to ensure we effectively communicate to our shared constituency regarding project status and impacts regarding a station or line.
  2. I am proud to have led the council that has passed the most progressive housing agenda in the nation. In just two years, we’ve gotten more done on housing than the city has done in decades. We’re getting rid of segregation-era zoning restrictions in order to build more housing, different types of housing, and build housing around transit lines. We’re giving young people a chance to build a life in Austin just like my generation had. If reelected, not only will I work to keep these changes but to ensure that the policy is implemented effectively and with haste.
  3. I believe that suit is counterproductive and seeks to overturn the will of voters. I have fought hard to defend Project Connect at the Legislature. As a member of the ATP Board and a member of the Council, I will continue to defend the will of our voters and fight the lawsuit.The voters of Austin elected in 2020 to dedicate a portion of the city’s property tax rate to implement a light rail system. Light rail has been an elusive goal for many Austinites – including me – for well over two decades, and our voters made an affirmative decision to invest in a more affordable and sustainable future for our community.

    Now, some folks who didn’t like the outcome of that election in 2020 have assured that the Texas Legislature will attempt to undermine the will of Austin’s voters – all in the name of protecting Austin voters. I proudly stand on the side of the Biden Administration who has endorsed it through Secretary Buttigieg and against Ken Paxton and adherents of Project 2025, which calls for slashing Capital Improvement Grants that Project Connect need to survive.

  4. I am working collaboratively with regional mayors and have been extensively lobbying Amtrak for increased funding for inter-city passenger rail. I have testified before Congress on this. I believe that inter-city passenger rail is essential to the quality of life of Central Texas and will continue to pursue federal funds that will allow us to achieve that goal.

District 2

Vanessa Fuentes

  1. We are not going to be able to build enough roads in Central Texas to efficiently move all of our community members around the region. We need to get Project Connect built to create a strong rail backbone across Central Austin, which will, in turn, help support added bus capacity. People forget that Project Connect also involves new bus lines, including the Pleasant Valley Metrorapid, which is important for my Southeast Austin district.
  2. I voted for all of these reforms because I believe it is absolutely essential that we create dense walkable neighborhoods near our transit stops.
  3. Austin voters adopted Project Connect because they believe like I do that roads alone won’t solve our transportation issues. We have to fight tooth and nail to protect Project Connect. Future generations are counting on us to win.
  4. It is absolutely imperative that our transportation planning comes from a regional approach. Over 1.5 million people live outside of Austin in the Austin metropolitan area and many of those commute to Austin for work. Just a few years ago, the voters in Leander voted to remain a part of CapMetro, demonstrating continued interest in our neighboring communities to be connected by transit. We must continue conversations with neighboring cities and explore options to expand transit across our region.

Robert Reynolds

No response received

District 4

Monica Guzman

No response received

Louis Herrin III

No response received

Jim Rabuck

No response received

Eduardo Romero

No response received

Chito Vela

  1. I am a board member of CapMetro and have spent much of the last two years learning about the transit system and working with the city and CapMetro to make it more reliable and frequent. I am a transit user and am very conscious of designing a system that is focused on providing quality transportation and a good customer experience to its riders. I’ve attended and presented at transit conferences and toured the transit systems of both Dallas and Houston. CapMetro and transit in Austin are very high priorities of mine.
  2. I was the lead sponsor or a co-sponsor of virtually all the legislation mentioned above. I have been a champion of code reform that makes housing cheaper and easier to build and will continue to do so in my next term. Now that they are passed, we need to make sure these policies are implemented in a practical way. In terms of transit, affordability and climate change, these changes are absolutely essential to Austin’s future. I will be a happy council member if by the end of my term in 2028 we are building light rail in Austin and closing the Fayette Coal Plant!
  3. I support Project Connect and want to get it built ASAP! We will not meet our housing, transportation or affordability goals without a light rail system in Austin. The construction of Project Connect is critical for our future and I will fight for it. The financial and legal structure of Project Connect is complex and the lawsuit is a concern. I hope we are able to win and I expect to. However, I am also open to a legislative fix during the next session if possible. Winning a lawsuit that takes years to resolve and leaves the project in limbo is not really a victory. I am open to all possibilities in order to move the project forward without further delays.
  4. Regional transportation solutions are critical to Austin’s future. However, we must build out the core of the system before we expand it to the suburbs. A project like the Green Line to Manor/Elgin is an excellent idea that I support but only after we finish the core of the light rail network. I am also open to the possibility of bringing in additional members to the CapMetro system if and when there is the desire to do so. But first and foremost, we must increase the amount of housing in central Austin and the quality of the transit there before looking to expand transit into the suburbs.

District 6

Mackenzie Kelly

  1. As a current City Council member and candidate for re-election, I am committed to working closely with Cap Metro to improve bus capacity, reliability, and frequency, making transit a more viable option for more Austinites. One critical aspect of this is addressing the needs of District 6, which is severely underserved by bus routes. Many residents in my district have limited access to regular public transit options, making it harder for them to commute efficiently.To solve this issue, I propose exploring on-demand transit solutions like CapMetro’s Pickup service, which could provide more flexible transportation for areas with lower ridership or difficult-to-serve locations. By expanding services like this, we can offer more convenient and affordable transit options to underserved communities, ensuring that everyone has access to reliable transportation.

    My approach to improving transit services continues to involve several key strategies:

    Collaborative Planning: I will continue to work with Cap Metro to align transit services with our community’s specific needs, ensuring that underserved areas like District 6 get the attention and service improvements they require.

    Infrastructure Investment: Supporting the development of bus lanes and transit-priority signals where appropriate will enhance bus reliability by reducing delays caused by traffic congestion. This can also apply to on-demand services to ensure timely pickups and drop-offs.

    Frequency and Accessibility: I will continue advocating for more frequent buses on high-demand routes and pushing for expanded services in underserved areas. Enhanced infrastructure, such as improved shelters and ADA-compliant stops, will help make transit more accessible.

    Public-Private Partnerships: Exploring partnerships with local businesses and community organizations could allow us to co-develop innovative solutions, such as corporate transit passes or last-mile transportation options, which would make using the bus system more convenient for people commuting from District 6.

    Community Input and Transparency: Continuing to engage with residents in Northwest Austin and District 6 will ensure that any improvements are tailored to the specific needs of our neighborhoods. Transparency in the decision-making process is crucial so that Austinites feel they have a voice in how transit is shaped.

    By focusing on these areas and implementing solutions like on-demand Pickup services, I believe we can significantly improve transit options for District 6 and all of Austin, ensuring a more equitable and sustainable transportation network for everyone.

  2. As someone who was a vocal critic of some of these changes, I expressed concerns about the lack of infrastructure to support them adequately. My primary focus has always been on ensuring that growth in Austin is sustainable and that we have the necessary infrastructure in place to support new housing developments and increased density, especially around transit hubs.Now that these policies have passed, I see no reason but to ensure they are implemented in the best way possible for everyone. My commitment is to making sure that these changes actually deliver on their promises of increasing affordability and accessibility without straining our existing infrastructure or negatively impacting the unique character of our neighborhoods.

    In no way would I work to reverse the will of the council or undermine these changes. Instead, I will work diligently to address the legitimate concerns that many Austinites, including myself, have had regarding infrastructure readiness, such as water, utilities, and transportation. By working together to strengthen our city’s infrastructure while moving these policies forward, we can create a more livable and accessible Austin for all residents.

    My goal is to ensure that as we continue to implement these changes, we do so thoughtfully, keeping in mind the importance of both affordability and livability while maintaining the character of our diverse neighborhoods.

  3. I understand that part of being an elected official involves sometimes being faced with lawsuits, and this situation is no exception. While I was unaware of the involvement of the Heritage Foundation and the Texas Public Policy Foundation (TPPF), I was aware of the State Attorney General’s involvement in the lawsuit. I’ve also been made aware of concerns that some voters feel they were misled by the initial proposal for Project Connect in 2020, which, from my understanding, has been drastically reduced in scope since it was first presented to the electorate.

    If this issue were to go back to a vote, I would support it because I firmly believe that the voice of the electorate is powerful and should be heard. Austinites overwhelmingly supported Project Connect when it was first approved, and while there are legitimate concerns about its evolving scope, I respect the will of the voters. I do believe, however, that we urgently need improved infrastructure for public transit, but the options are currently limited, and we will have to see how the courts ultimately align in this case.

    In the meantime, I will continue to work toward solutions that balance Austin’s immediate transit needs with long-term sustainability and affordability.

  4. As an Austin City Council member, I fully understand the importance of regional collaboration when it comes to improving transit options across Central Texas. CapMetro not only serves Austin but also the surrounding areas, including parts of Travis and Williamson counties, covering a service area of 535 square miles. This network includes 82 standard routes, 15 high-frequency bus routes, and services like MetroExpress for commuters and CapMetro Rapid for bus rapid transit.

    With the high cost of living in Austin, many essential workers, such as mechanics, healthcare professionals, and teachers, have been forced to move to more affordable areas outside the city. Despite moving further out, they continue to commute to Austin for work, and it’s clear that transit services in these outlying areas are essential.

    To address this, I propose working closely with CapMetro and regional partners to expand transit options beyond Austin’s borders, making it easier for those living in suburban areas to access reliable transportation. This includes advocating for expanded high-frequency routes and express services to better serve outlying areas. I also support the exploration of new partnerships that could improve connectivity between regional transit systems, potentially leading to more seamless travel options across Central Texas.

    Additionally, as we look at long-term growth and infrastructure needs, we should prioritize integrating affordable housing options near transit hubs and expanding services like park-and-ride facilities to help those commuting from outside Austin. By strengthening regional cooperation and expanding services where they are most needed, we can help ease the burden on Central Texas residents while keeping our essential workforce connected to the city.

Krista Lane

  1. Better public transportation is critical to the future of our city. It is an essential part of meeting our equity, environmental, and economic development goals. The City has a specific responsibility to build the infrastructure required to support bus reliability, capacity, and frequency. This includes dedicated bus lanes, signal priority, and improved pedestrian and cycling infrastructure to reach transit stops. The City also has a responsibility to manage growth in such a way that it advantages transit riders.

    Without improved express connections between the suburbs and the central city, car traffic into central Austin will continue to grow unabated, and we will miss opportunities to increase Red Line and express bus ridership from the suburbs, while improving quality of life for suburban Austinites and central city dwellers alike.

    Untapped opportunities for express bus connections from D6 to transit, employment, and educational hubs:

    – Add express bus service from existing Park & Rides on 183 to downtown, the Domain, Kramer Red Line Station, so there is an option to escape 183 traffic other than driving on Jollyville Road, before considering eliminating a car lane on Jollyville Road.

    – Add bus service between Lakeline Station and the new Children’s Hospital.

    – Add bus service to connect the swaths of multi-family near Lakeline Station and the new Children’s Hospital with each other and with retail services near HMart, Lakeline Mall, and the Alamo Draft House.

    Untapped opportunities to create safe, pleasant routes for people on bike and foot to reach destinations without a car ride:

    – Connect the apartments along the train track near Lakeline Station with each other and Lakeline Station via a hike/bike path at the backs of the complexes, so that the route is shorter and more pleasant than walking out the front of the complex and along 620.

    – Improve connections between existing sidewalks and trails, so that people can walk and bike safely farther than they can now, whether that is from home to school, the library, the pool, neighborhood shopping, or transportation into the city.

    – Enhance safe routes to school on bike and foot and support bus ridership to/from schools.

  2. Austin needs to create more affordable opportunities to live near train and bus stops, and I will work to keep recently passed changes moving forward.

    My opponent:

    – voted against the initiatives listed above

    – has specifically advocated against the type of development that supports
    transit

    – repeatedly advocates against solution-oriented action and in favor of extended study longstanding problems

    I support:

    – the types of initiatives listed above

    – streamlining the land development code

    – removing restrictions that make it too expensive (or impossible) to build more housing in Austin, especially for individuals or smaller properties

    – improving efficiency and reducing approval timelines for Development Services and Permitting

    – city programs that promote stability in Austin neighborhoods: support for renters and owners seeking to remain in their homes, short-term assistance programs, direct investment in workforce and affordable housing structured to remain affordable for the long term. My 10 years professional experience analyzing the housing market, transportation and utilities projects, and development projects in Austin has prepared me to take action from day one on longstanding issues of housing, transportation, and development.

    As a longtime community leader in District 6, I also understand the importance of:

    – meaningful two-way communication with stakeholders in crafting effective policy

    – policies and programs that support the diversity and stability of Austin’s neighborhoods

  3. I oppose the governance by lawsuit strategies these groups use, which seek to undermine the will of the voters and the effectiveness of our city. Austin must defend its rights under the state constitution and via the laws the legislature itself passes.

    My opponent voted against Project Connect and is supported by the same groups bringing this lawsuit.

  4. This is possibly the most disappointing part of the incumbent’s opposition to Project Connect and public transportation.

    District 6 has a unique opportunity to lead on regional collaboration and infrastructure because the district is majority in Williamson County, adjacent to Cedar Park and Round Rock, and >90% in Round Rock ISD.

    Effective investment in District 6 transit options could create a bridge between Central Austin’s more robust multimodal transit networks and the broader region north of Austin – like Cedar Park’s extensive trail networks and express bus connections to major major employers and town centers.

    I have the vision to identify missed opportunities for connections with existing infrastructure like under-utilized Park & Rides, and I have also been endorsed by elected officials from these jurisdictions who share my values in expanding transit options in the suburbs, such as Representative John Bucy, the Mayor of Cedar Park, 5 of the 7 Round Rock ISD school board members, numerous state legislators and Austin City Council Members, etc.

District 7

Edwin Bautista

  1. Beyond advocating for dedicated bus lanes and expanded service, I will work with CapMetro to create more innovative initiatives like “Pick Up”, an on-demand micro-transit service, to fill gaps in under-served areas. I’ll push for a feasibility study of temporary fare-free zones in high-density areas to encourage ridership and explore public-private collaborations to upgrade our bus stops with solar powered amenities and address the pertinent issue of charging electric bus fleets. I believe the city and CapMetro can make transit a faster and more convenient option for all Austinites by continuing to enact bold initiatives.

  2. I generally support the overall goals of the recently enacted land development code reforms which aim to address Austin’s housing crisis by increasing housing density and promoting redevelopment. However, it’s crucial to ensure that these changes do not inadvertently lead to the displacement of vulnerable communities. The balance between development and equity must be carefully managed to protect Austinites and maintain the diverse character of our city.

    Rather than reversing progress, I’ll work to enhance these initiatives—expanding deeply affordable housing opportunities, strengthening anti-displacement measures and advocating for further improvements in our public transit system. I believe the City Council can make Austin a more affordable and accessible city for everyone by supporting
    policies that reduce sprawl and allow more people to live near transit.

    As a strong proponent of community engagement, I’ll push for more transparency and public input to ensure these policies serve the needs of our diverse communities while keeping Austin on track for a more sustainable and equitable future.

  3. I strongly support moving forward with Project Connect as planned and approved by Austin voters. I believe light rail is vital for Austin’s future as it will help address the city’s critical transportation, environmental and housing goals. The opposition from the state legislature and legal challenges from figures like AG Ken Paxton threaten not just the project, but the future of our city’s infrastructure. Below are several key steps I think the the city/Austin Transit Partnership/CapMetro should take tosafeguard and streamline Project Connect:

    – Robust legal defense and advocacy – vigorously defend Project Connect in court and continue advocating for it publicly, perhaps at the state level as well. I think building strategic alliances can strengthen our position against state interference.

    – Secure and diversify funding – explore alternative funding options, such as federal grants and public-private partnerships, to help ensure financial stability and reduce the risk posed by state-level opposition. I believe this approach can also shield the project from political volatility.

    – Engage the community – strong public support is paramount, therefore all entities should ramp up community engagement efforts and ensure that Austinites understand the benefits of Project Connect, such as reduced traffic congestion and increased housing accessibility. I strongly believe transparent communication will help build a broad coalition in favor of the project.

  4. If elected to represent District 7 on the Austin City Council, I will prioritize a strong and collaborative approach with regional partners to ensure we expand transit options for the greater Central Texas region. As member of the American Institute of Certified Planners with degrees in Urban Studies and Community & Regional Planning from UT Austin, I understand the critical importance of building a connected and inclusive transit network that serves not just Austin, but also the surrounding areas where many of our essential workers now live due to high housing costs.

    To achieve this, I will actively collaborate with elected leaders within our metropolitan planning organization (MPO), Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (CAMPO), and neighboring MPOs to expand transit services across the greater Central Texas. I will advocate for expanding express bus routes, regional rail options and on-demand micro-transit services that connect suburbs and rural areas directly to Austin’s job centers.

    My focus will also be on collaborative funding models that share the responsibility of building and maintaining transit infrastructure across the region to ensure no area is left behind. I believe that a regional approach is not only practical but essential to reducing traffic congestion, cutting commute times, and ensuring that everyone—no matter where they live—can access Austin’s economic opportunities.

Gary Bledsoe

  1. Capital Metro is essential for Austin. It is a major part of many needed solutions potentially so I want to work constructively with it so that we can provide more effective transportation to more people in an environmentally friendly way. I also would like to explore doing so in a way that will attract more riders and possibly at reduced costs. I consider Cap Metro to be an asset. I will always seek to learn from Cap Metro and its officials and hope to establish a relationship where they will listen to me and the residents of District 7.
  2. We still do not have a solution to our housing problem. One major difference between me and most of my opponents is that I AM CENTERED ON HOW WE BUILD HOUSING AND WHO WE ARE BUILDING HOUSING FOR, while most of them believe that the current market driven system is all that we need. I am certain that such a market driven system will not work here and research indicates it has failed in nearly every place where such a system has been tried—even here. The current policies are only likely to benefit those that are making 80% of the MFI and not those below. We must have an INTENTIONAL EQUITY DRIVEN HOUSING POLICY to address that and having effective public transportation will help us improve the quality of life for the residents and hopefully limit the new carbon footprint. We have a crucial need for housing but not just those at 80%MFI and above, and density can be part of that solution as well. I will ask for an AUDIT of affordable housing in the 50% to 80% range, so we can see where we are and what needs to be done as well as what we can do. Many solid citizens, artists, musicians, public employees, young people starting out and blue-collar workers make a lot less than 80% MFI. They seem to be the forgotten people in all of this. We need them here if we are to KEEP AUSTIN SPECIAL, and we don’t want to become a community like some we all know where only the most affluent can live. Though the construction of this housing must take place, I will also ask for an audit to determine if changes are creating HEAT ISLANDS or impacting flooding or infrastructure. However, if we want to do this right, we will respect our city and its future and do so in an environmentally responsible way. There is no law that says these ideas are mutually exclusive. I must note here too that there is a DISPLACEMENT CRISIS so we also must assess how changes may be causing displacement and if the displacement is equal to or possibly exceeding the newly constructed housing.
  3. I have a son who uses rail 3 times per week. I have been a supporter of rail from long before we had it and even supported Project Connect. I saw where the initial rail proposal two decades ago was defeated by voters because of perceived integrity issues and how the “fixing” of the issues allowed us rail supporters to prevail the next time. We should not forget this lesson. I understand the basis for the lawsuit and I understand why the program was changed. I don’t know whether it will prevail or not, but there has been preliminary success and the Council has been found to have violated the Open Meetings Law 3 times this year. I also know you also have appeals in lawsuits and there may be a different calculus involved there. I have pause, any time I see the Heritage Foundation or the Texas Attorney General involved in something (I am fighting them on SB17, voter suppression and actions at UT among others), but there are highly honorable local people, lawyers and public officials on both sides that cannot work First, I want to build more affordable housing for them to move back to Austin, that is first priority. We need them to come home! Second, we need to look at all available options to provide transportation and do so in an environmentally conscious way. I am a fan of rail but it is getting so expensive that I don’t know if rail is the long-term option. We can’t just continue to increase taxes or provide blank checks to contractors. One option I have been discussing with local community members is an On Demand Transit System operated in a manner similar to the ride apps we all use nowadays, and do so with electric cars. Shreveport, Louisiana is one smaller city I believe that is doing this. And it might be that a hybrid plan could end up being the most effective. However, we need to follow those early lessons so that good and concerned citizens and honorable public officials can work together in all of our best interests. We need to have an open process as far as ideas and public knowledge and input, because it is the right thing to do and also the thing most likely to bring about broad-based support. I will propose that we take public hearings on the road and make them convenient to people and hold them in all 10 Districts on any large proposal for major new public policy. We must do a better job and go to the people and have discussions.
  4. Together at this point and that is where I want to focus my attention. I hope to be the kind of person who can work with the local persons involved from both sides to see if there is a same page possibility. Project Connect will only take care of a small, but important, part of our local transportation problem. We will need to do much more even if it is implemented, so a fractured local community is less likely to get something done. ZERO-SUM POLITICS are bad for Austin. I want to restore trust, make sure that there is extensive public input and vetting on any future program ideas before any are implemented and will do my best to get the local differing interests working together again. If not, we will have a rocky road ahead. The likelihood in this instance of voters supporting any new proposals, with such a splintered community, will be greatly diminished.

Daniel Dominguez

No response received

Pierre Nguyen

  1. I’ve personally worked with CapMetro on their Equitable Transit-Oriented Development (ETOD) initiatives, and from my experience, I know that we need to make sure our transit plans are rooted in the realities of the communities we serve. I’m committed to working with CapMetro to improve bus capacity, reliability, and frequency so that public transit becomes a true option for more people in Austin.

    This means pushing for:

    Better Funding and Investment: We need to make sure CapMetro has stable and dedicated funding to expand and improve services. This could involve innovative funding models and public-private partnerships.

    Focused Improvements Where It’s Needed Most: Let’s prioritize high-demand routes and underserved areas to increase bus frequency and make service more reliable. We should be focusing on getting buses to run more often where people actually need them.

    Practical Infrastructure Upgrades: Dedicated bus lanes, improved stops, and transit signal priority can make a huge difference in reducing delays and improving reliability. We should be practical about where these improvements go to get the most impact.

    Policies That Reflect Community Needs: I’ve seen firsthand that real change happens when policies are grounded in the needs and voices of the communities they’re meant to serve. I’ll continue advocating for this approach, ensuring marginalized and transit-dependent communities are prioritized.

    Using Data and Being Realistic: My campaign was the first to join Movability TX because I believe in setting goals that make sense. We have to be realistic about what we can achieve and manage resources effectively to close service gaps where they exist.

  2. I’m all in on keeping these changes moving forward. As someone who has been working directly on ETOD initiatives, I’ve seen how critical these policies are for creating a more connected, affordable, and inclusive Austin. We need more housing options near transit that are affordable for the people who need them most. Reversing these changes would be a step in the wrong direction. I’ll push for policies that help create more affordable housing near transit hubs and ensure we’re getting the most out of these reforms. We should also keep engaging with the community to make sure these policies work for everyone and adapt as needed. The goal should always be to build a city that’s more accessible, equitable, and sustainable for all residents.
  3. I’m against this lawsuit, plain and simple. Austin voters made their voices clear—they want better transit options like Project Connect. However, I also want to make sure we’re delivering the plan that the community voted on. If Project Connect isn’t living up to that, then we need to revisit it to ensure it truly serves all Austinites, especially those who rely on transit the most. Living in a working-class and diverse part of the district, I understand how important it is for transit to connect these communities to the city center more quickly. I would support a version of Project Connect that prioritizes those underserved areas rather than focusing solely on areas already well connected. If elected, I’ll fight to keep Austin moving forward on Project Connect but with a focus on true community engagement, transparency, and equity.
  4. We need to think regionally because Austin doesn’t exist in a bubble. People are commuting in and out of the city every day, and we have to work together with surrounding communities to create a more connected transit system that works for everyone.

    I’d propose:

    Regional Coordination and Planning: Work closely with neighboring cities, counties, and regional transit authorities to build a cohesive transit network. This includes looking at more commuter rail options, better bus services, and even innovative solutions like regional shuttle services.

    Collaborative Funding Efforts: Advocate for state and federal funding to support these regional projects. We need to leverage every opportunity for grants and partnerships to get things done.

    Public-Private Partnerships: Let’s bring in private partners to explore new solutions like employer-sponsored transit programs or rideshare options that can fill in gaps.

    Focusing on Equity and Inclusion: Make sure that any regional transit plans include input from all communities, especially those who are most transit-dependent and often left out of these conversations. It’s about building a transit system that truly serves everyone.

    Central Texas is growing fast, and we have to think big and work together to make sure our transit system grows with it. My approach will always be grounded in practicality, data, and true community engagement.

Adam Powell

  1. It starts with information – using my role as City Council Member to learn as much as possible from transit riders and potential transit riders in District 7 and proactively communicating those insights to CapMetro. That information sharing is critical to maximizing the CapMetro board seats that are held by City Council Members. Whether I’m in that role or not I will be fully engaged in CapMetro governance decisions, especially during CapMetro’s service change process that occurs each January, April/May, and August that makes changes to CapMetro routes.

    With Project Connect funds that are designated for bus system improvements we have a unique opportunity to not just improve our system, but also to improve traffic safety on key arteries through designated bus lanes in tandem with traffic calming measures. On City Council I plan to track closely on these investments, and ensure that they benefit District 7 and Austin at large as much as possible.

  2. I was a strong supporter of all of these land use policies and I testified multiple times in favor of both phases of the HOME Initiative, ETOD, Compatibility Reform, and Eliminating Parking Minimums. As the question mentions, these reforms were critical to ensuring ATP and CapMetro are as competitive as possible for federal funding. In addition to that it’s good policy to be as proactive as possible in preparing areas for future transit lines, which includes ensuring that a wide variety of Austinites are able to live in close proximity to them.

    My support of these reforms is also personal, as someone who was born in Austin but grew up in Leander because my educator parents couldn’t afford housing within Austin. More Austinites than ever are facing that same circumstance, and I truly believe these reforms will create more affordable options for our community.

    Finally, I’m reminded of how public transit was a lifeline for my family when we moved to Leander. My Dad would walk a mile down a road with no sidewalk to get to a CapMetro bus stop, then take the bus from Leander into downtown Austin for work. My family was facing financially tough times then, but having housing near transit made a massive difference for us.

  3. I won’t sugarcoat it, I view the lawsuits pursued by a small minority of Austinites and folks outside of our community as completely undemocratic attempts to undermine the will of Austin voters. I’m fully committed to defending Project Connect as a City Council Member, including through advocacy at the legislative level as is necessary.

    While I don’t want to entertain the possibility of these lawsuits succeeding, I’m also committed to pursuing a future of rail in Austin if that occurs. As I’ve knocked doors throughout this campaign, it’s overwhelmingly clear that Austinites truly want rail in our city and throughout District 7. I believe future efforts to accomplish this will be successful, but I will fight to make sure those efforts aren’t necessary.

  4. First and foremost we need to invest in our relationships with non-Austin CapMetro areas: Manor, Jonestown, Point Venture, Lago Vista, San Leanna, and Leander. The 2022 election cycle shows us how important this is, as Leander only narrowly voted to stay in CapMetro. Of course in the past other local cities have chosen to leave CapMetro altogether, which should be avoided at all costs.

    I’m also a supporter of the growing conversation around high speed rail to connect major cities in Texas. Though most of this conversation has been occurring at the County level, I believe we can do more to support and advocate for high speed rail from the City Council dais. Having high speed rail in addition to Project Connect and its planned expansions would be truly transformational for transit in the greater Central Texas area, and we need to work our hardest to make that a reality.

Todd Shaw

  1. I will seek an appointment to the Cap Metro Board of Directors. This is the most effective way to help in these matters. The second way is to lead by example and take the bus to City Hall. I currently take the MetroRapid 803 to get to work at the University of Texas.
  2. I served as Planning Commission Chair as many of these code changes moved through the approval process. City Council passed the first phase of HOME during my tenure. I served on the working group that made substantive improvements to the draft HOME Phase 1 code before the Planning Commission recommended approval by a 9-2 vote under my leadership. I will keep these changes moving forward, as well as additional measures to increase the quantity and the variety of housing to accommodate all income levels. I will also champion the public process of passing comprehensive land code changes.
  3. I am quoted at an AURA forum as being tired of sore losers who keep suing the City and preventing Austin from having a world-class transit system and housing for all who want to work and live here. Austin’s population is expected to grow to 4 million by 2040. To be a great city, we must have a great transit system to move people more efficiently through our streets and meet our climate and pollution reduction goals. I will support the voters’ decision to improve our transit system.
  4. Sadly, so many people who work in Austin cannot afford to live here. These same people pay more for transportation due to their long commutes. I will support increased access to transit options throughout the Austin MSA and lead efforts to improve housing affordability.

Mike Siegel

  1. Creating frequent, accessible, and reliable bus options across the city of Austin is critically important if we are going to meet our goals for climate action, affordability, and quality of life.

    As a City Councilmember, my goal will be to ensure Cap Metro has the resources and political support to expand bus services and earn the level of ridership we need to have robust, sustainable mass transit. As a candidate, I am emphasizing climate action, in part because the climate movement includes a broad array of stakeholders, including advocates for mass transit. Making it easier and more enjoyable

  2. I support the recent changes to Austin’s land use policy, including programs that allow us to win federal investments in light rail and bus transit. As the City transitions from suburban sprawl to a denser urban environment, it’s necessary to update our Code.

    I don’t believe these Code changes are sufficient to solve our housing and affordability crises; greater investments will be needed, from local and federal sources.

    I support infill housing policies as an alternative to sprawl, and believe they promote goals including reducing fossil fuel emissions and providing more affordable housing options for for folks like the nurses, teachers, and electrical workers who struggle to live in the city they serve.

  3. I support Project Connect and so did a super-majority of Austin voters. The lawsuit and preemption threats represent anti-democratic actions aimed at overruling the will of the people.

    I support the City’s efforts to defend Project Connect in the courts and at the Legislature. I also believe that if we need to ask the voters to reinforce Project Connect or approve additional transit legislation, they will do it.

  4. We need to organize at every level and agency of government to create a more transit-rich environment in the Central Texas region. I want to reverse the trend of Austin workers being pushed out of the city; that said, a lot of workers have now made their homes in places like Taylor and Lockhart, and the work ahead is to create more opportunities for them to get off the road. I support the leadership of County Judge Andy Brown to build momentum for inter-city rail options between places like San Antonio and Austin. A regional commuter rail network makes increasing sense as the I-35 corridor densifies and Austin continues to grow. At the CAMPO level, we need to grow a coalition of transit advocates and convince the Board to support more transit options. At the federal level, my plan would be to work with Congressmen Casar and Doggett to advocate for continuing transit investments.

District 10

Marc Duchen

No response received

Ashika Ganguly

  1. As a city council member, I will collaborate closely with Cap Metro to expand bus capacity and enhance service reliability by advocating for increased funding and streamlined operational efficiencies. I will also support initiatives to boost bus frequency and connectivity, ensuring that transit becomes a more practical and attractive option for all Austinites.
  2. If elected, I will support the continuation of efforts to modernize our land use policy.. These reforms are essential for increasing housing supply and affordability, particularly near transit hubs, which will enhance both transit effectiveness and accessibility. At the same time, I am committed to preserving Austin’s unique culture and character by ensuring that growth respects and integrates with our city’s distinctive neighborhoods, historical areas, and is sensitive to environmental concerns. By striking this balance, we can foster a vibrant urban core that accommodates more residents while maintaining the rich, cultural tapestry that makes Austin so special.
  3. If elected, I will staunchly support defending Austin’s right to implement Project Connect and other transit initiatives against external challenges. It’s crucial that we uphold the will of our voters, who have overwhelmingly endorsed these projects to enhance our city’s transit infrastructure and affordable housing. I believe in strong local leadership to push back against state preemption and interference that seeks to undermine our progress, and as the only candidate with experience in state government navigating that preemption – I believe I am well suited to support efforts that enable local autonomy and control. Our focus must remain on advancing our transit goals and addressing the needs of our community, despite any external opposition.
  4. As a former teacher, I’ve seen how many of my colleagues had to move to the suburbs to find affordable housing to raise their families, leaving them with long commutes to work in Austin, while parents of my students struggled to get to school reliably facing both inadequate transit options or unsafe walkability to school. To address this issue, I would work with regional partners to improve and expand multi-modal transit options, making it easier for essential workers and families to commute from surrounding areas. Additionally, I would advocate for increased housing development in our urban core to provide more affordable living options closer to where people work. By enhancing transit and expanding housing within the city, we can help reduce commuting times and make Austin a more accessible and inclusive place for everyone, as well as more environmentally friendly.