Austin Transit Partnership Selects Contractor for Light Rail Project, Construction Set to Begin in 2027
AUSTIN, Texas – The Austin Transit Partnership (ATP) has selected Austin Rail Constructors (ARC) to finalize the design and begin pre-construction activities for the city’s first light rail system, marking a significant milestone in the long-awaited project. The selection, approved by the ATP Board on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, paves the way for construction to begin in 2027.
Multibillion-Dollar Contract Awarded
ARC, a joint venture between Stacy Witbeck and Sundt Construction, will be responsible for shaping and building nearly every aspect of the light rail system, including the transitway, tracks, systems, stations, bridges, traffic signals, utilities, drainage structures, and streetscape improvements. The contract is valued at multiple billions of dollars.
Project Details and Timeline
Austin’s light rail system will feature 15 stations and will operate with all-electric trains running every five to ten minutes throughout most of the day. The system is designed to be fully expandable to accommodate future growth. Construction is slated to begin in 2027, with the anticipated completion date in 2033.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
ATP CEO Greg Canally emphasized the project’s broader benefits, stating that it will create thousands of jobs and economic opportunities in Texas. The project aims to foster local employment and business growth, with opportunities for subcontractors, material suppliers, and small businesses.
Rigorous Procurement Process
The selection of ARC followed a rigorous, competitive procurement process that evaluated firms’ experience, personnel qualifications, technical approach, and design innovation. ATP completed the procurement in approximately one year, faster than many comparable mega projects nationwide. Prior to formal solicitations, ATP engaged with industry stakeholders through a Request for Information process and hosted networking events to encourage participation from local businesses.
Design-Build Approach
ATP has adopted a design-build model, bringing the construction partner on board early in the project to facilitate alignment and prevent costly change orders and delays. Over the coming year, ATP will collaborate with ARC, incorporating community feedback into the design and scope of the project.
Looking Ahead
“Austin is building the transportation system our growing city demands,” said Austin Mayor Kirk Watson. “Selecting a construction partner is a major step forward in delivering the voter-mandated transit system and will provide infrastructure careers for thousands in our region.” As design advances and construction is authorized, ARC will competitively bid portions of the work, creating further opportunities for local and statewide businesses.
For more information on the Austin Light Rail project and procurement opportunities, visit www.atptx.org/build-with-us/.