AUSTIN, Texas – Travis County Judge Andy Brown is trying to get a passenger rail plan for Central Texas back on track. He sent a message to federal officials after a multi-million dollar grant was awarded to a high speed rail project in East Texas.

Amtrak provides passenger service through Austin from San Antonio to Dallas, but it’s far from efficient. It’s not uncommon, a three-hour trip by car to the metroplex can take four to six hours by train. 

The slow roll for riders is because Amtrak uses rails owned by Union Pacific, which makes delivering freight, not people, a priority. Efforts to streamline the route have not been successful. 

But to the east, things are moving for a plan to build a high-speed bullet train between Dallas and Houston. The Federal Railroad Administration awarded the project a $64 million grant, which keeps the plan alive. 

In a social media post, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg included the new east Texas route on a national map of other rail projects. That map identified Central Texas as already having passenger service. 

Travis County Judge Andy Brown responded to that post, telling the transportation secretary, Austin and San Antonio are fast-growing metro areas and would love to be included in future passenger rail plans. 

Judge Brown spoke to FOX 7 about the message he sent and the projects in the works.

“The fact that we don’t have great passenger rail between us and our neighbor 70 miles to the south, Bexar County is pretty wild and pretty unique in the world,” said Judge Brown.

Passenger rail connecting Austin and San Antonio proposed

Judge Brown is working with Bexar County Judge Sakai on building a Central Texas Rail Coalition that includes Republicans and Democrats.

“To fight for increased passenger rail service in Texas, because we’re realizing that even though I-35 is being rebuilt in Austin and in San Antonio, even after that, we’re going to need better ways and additional ways to get around between Austin and San Antonio in particular, but really around the whole state. We’re growing so fast. We need more passenger rail,” said Brown.

The team up is an effort to get the current federal administration to understand that the rail service between San Antonio, Austin, and Dallas is not efficient and actually needs to be ramped up.

“I don’t fault the Biden administration. I don’t fault TxDOT, because there’s been lots of reasons in history of why we don’t have great passenger rail along this route, but we need to all come together and figure it out,” said Brown. 

“I’m getting a different sense of a from people who are Republicans and Democrats about the need for this and the desire to do this,” said Brown.

The rail coalition is called the “Texas Passenger Rail Advisory Committee.” Brown believes the group can deliver. 

A big push is expected to come in January when state lawmakers return to Austin.

“So really, it’s just up to the Texas legislature to take advantage of the money that the Biden administration is offering. My understanding is it’s about an 80/20 match. So, if we come up with 20% of the funding, the feds will match 80% of that. And so, this is a great opportunity for us to move forward. And we’re going to be taking this issue to the legislature this session to try to get, you know, about $300 million put into the Texas Rail Fund so that we can help match those federal funds,” said Brown.

There are three options in play, according to Judge Brown:

• Teaming up with a private company out of Florida that’s considering a rail line along I-35.
• Spur off the Houston to Dallas bullet train route, looping west from College Station.
• Idea of cutting a deal with Union Pacific, adding additional track for Amtrak and or re-routing freight.

September 5, 2024

Austin Marathon® and Austin International Half Marathon Unite Runners with Training Events and Exciting Prizes

Austin, TX – September 4, 2024 /ENDURANCE SPORTSWIRE/ – The countdown to the highly anticipated Ascension Seton Austin Marathon® and Austin International Half Marathon, previously known as the 3M Half Marathon, has commenced with the unveiling of Run Austin® Kickoff Week. Scheduled from September 9th to September 17th, 2024, this week-long celebration promises an exhilarating blend of fitness, camaraderie, and exciting prizes, designed to inspire the Austin community’s passion for running.

Run Austin® Kickoff Week is an annual event that unites experienced runners, aspiring athletes, and running enthusiasts in celebration of the upcoming Ascension Seton Austin Marathon, Half & 5k (February 16, 2025) and Austin International Half Marathon (January 19, 2025). Dedicated to promoting health, wellness, and an active lifestyle, this week-long series of events offers the perfect opportunity for participants to prepare and energize for the main races.

During Run Austin® Kickoff Week, runners of all abilities are encouraged to join in a series of group runs that capture the vibrant spirit of Austin’s running community. With over 35 group runs scheduled across the city and its surrounding areas, there’s something for everyone. The week wraps up with a final group run, culminating in a celebratory post-run happy hour.

A key highlight of Run Austin® Kickoff Week is the chance to win fantastic prizes. Each day, participants can enter to win a variety of fitness-related prizes from our sponsors, including premium gear and nutrition products. With the cumulative prizes exceeding $4,000, these daily opportunities add an extra dose of excitement to the already dynamic schedule of events.

“We’re thrilled to kick off Run Austin® Kickoff Week, celebrating the spirit of the Austin Marathon and the newly named Austin International Half Marathon. This event truly captures the excitement and energy of our running community, and we can’t wait to see everyone join in the fun!” said Stacy Keese, co-owner of High Five Events, the producers of both running events. “This week is more than just training; it’s an opportunity for runners to unite, inspire each other, and celebrate their love for the sport. We’re excited to witness the shared enthusiasm and connections that will light up this incredible week of events.”

“We’re excited to support Run Austin® Kickoff Week as the Austin running community gears up for their 2025 race goals. As the Official Running Store of High Five Events, Fleet Feet Austin is proud to partner once again with the 3M Half Marathon, now known as Austin International Half Marathon and the Austin Marathon. Together, we’re committed to creating unforgettable experiences for all participants. We’re looking forward to a season of inspiring races and can’t wait to welcome the Austin community,” said Ari Perez, Operating Partner at Fleet Feet Austin.

For a detailed schedule of events and more information about Run Austin® Kickoff Week, please visit the official event website at http://werunaustin.com/.

About the Ascension Seton Austin Marathon®: Since its inception in 1992, the Austin Marathon® has emerged as a world-class running event, attracting participants from all 50 states and over 50 countries. With a course that spans every quadrant of this dynamic city, offering a festive atmosphere with live music throughout, the marathon culminates in a vibrant finisher party. The event also serves as a powerful force for good, raising hundreds of thousands of dollars annually for various non-profit organizations. The Austin Marathon elevates Presidents Day weekend into a grand showcase of athleticism and community spirit, making it a bucket-list event for athletes, enthusiasts, and supporters from all over the world.

About the Austin International Half: The Austin International Half, formerly the 3M Half Marathon, has been one of Austin’s premier running events since its establishment in 1995. With a reputation for its fast and picturesque course, the race attracts runners of all levels from around the world. Organized by High Five Events, the Austin International Half is a celebration of athleticism, determination, and the vibrant running community in Austin, Texas. For more information, visit DownhillToDowntown.com.

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