Starting today, all K–12 students can ride Capital Metro services for free, as a permanent part of the agency's fare structure. 

In June, Capital Metro began a summer pilot program offering free fares for K–12 students in Central Texas, and received overwhelmingly positive feedback. The agency's board voted yesterday to make the pilot initiative permanent.

Access to frequent, reliable transportation is critical to solving the area's dual challenges of mobility and affordability. 

AISD worked closely with Capital Metro throughout the pilot program and in making this permanent fare structure change. Feedback from families and PTA groups throughout the district in support of the pilot factored heavily in the decision to make it permanent.

"We are thankful for our partnership with Capital Metro," said Superintendent Paul Cruz. "This program ensures our students have another safe option to get to school at no cost. This decision further supports Capital Metro's dedication to the youth of Austin."

Providing affordable transportation options for students and families supports Capital Metro's goals of increasing current ridership while developing future transit participation, simplifying the customer experience and promoting equity in the region.

"Free fares for K-12 students is an investment in the young people of our region. I am grateful to our board members for taking this step that allows us to serve our community even better and for the support of our partners, including AISD," said Capital Metro President and CEO Randy Clarke. "Together, we will continue to remove obstacles to opportunity for young people in Texas and build the customer base of tomorrow. I look forward to our continued work together."

Central Texas K–12 students with valid ID, and MetroAccess customers younger than 18, may all Capital Metro service free of charge. Students without a valid ID can visit Capital Metro's transit store to obtain identification.

For more information on the program, please visit capmetro.org.