Downtown Station, the heart of Austin’s rail network, will be out of service for the first few days of January. The closure is part of CapMetro’s effort to accommodate ongoing construction at the nearby Austin Convention Center, a project that began in September and will continue for several years. Commuters will need to adjust their travel plans, as trains will not run from Friday, January 2, through Monday, January 5, and the holiday on Thursday, January 1, will also see the line shut down.
Service Suspension Dates
The suspension of service begins on Friday, January 2, and ends on Monday, January 5. Those who normally rely on the Downtown Station for daily travel will find the station closed during this window, as CapMetro has announced the temporary halt to ensure worker safety and project progress.
Holiday Closure
In addition to the scheduled shutdown, CapMetro Rail will not operate on Thursday, January 1, due to the holiday. This means that the entire week of the New Year will see reduced rail availability for passengers heading to or from Downtown Station.
Temporary Terminus
While Downtown Station remains closed, Plaza Saltillo Station will temporarily serve as the end of the line for the Red Line. Passengers who need to reach destinations beyond Plaza Saltillo will be directed to use bus services that connect to and from the closed station.
Bus Transfers
CapMetro has arranged for bus transfers to accommodate riders who would otherwise use the Downtown Station. These buses will provide a link between the Red Line terminus at Plaza Saltillo and the areas normally served by the Downtown Station, ensuring that commuters can still reach their destinations during the closure.
Construction Phase
The construction phase of the convention center’s redevelopment began in September, marking the start of a major renovation effort. This phase has been underway for several months and will involve significant work around the rail corridor that passes near Downtown Station.
Duration of Work
Construction is expected to continue over the next several years, reflecting the scale of the redevelopment project. CapMetro officials have indicated that the work will remain active for a prolonged period, requiring ongoing adjustments to the rail service schedule.
Project Completion
Officials expect the convention center project to be completed before the 2029 spring festival season. This projected finish date aligns with the planning of future events and the anticipated return to full service for Downtown Station once the construction is concluded.
Impact on Commuters
For commuters, the temporary closure means planning ahead is essential. Those who usually board at Downtown Station should consider alternative routes, such as using Plaza Saltillo and the designated bus transfers, to maintain their travel schedules during the January shutdown.
Key Takeaways
- Downtown Station will close from January 2 to 5, with an additional holiday shutdown on January 1.
- Plaza Saltillo will act as the temporary terminus for the Red Line.
- Bus transfers will connect passengers to the closed station.
- Construction began in September and will last several years, with completion expected before the 2029 spring festival season.
Travelers should adjust their plans accordingly to avoid disruptions.
