Bexar County Allocates $100 Million for VIA’s East-West Rapid Transit Line

Bexar County Allocates $100 Million for VIA’s East-West Rapid Transit Line

In a significant move to enhance public transportation, San Antonio County Commissioners have approved a budget of $100 million for the new East-West rapid transit line, a project spearheaded by VIA Metropolitan Transit. The decision, made during a recent commission meeting, is seen as a crucial step towards unlocking nearly $147 million in federal funding.

Funding Details and Project Features

The total cost for the East-West rapid transit project amounts to an estimated $289 million. The rapid transit line will feature specialized buses that operate on dedicated lanes, which is a modern approach to improving transit efficiency. The funding approved by the county will cover a substantial portion of the local match required to secure federal backing.

Existing Projects and Future Plans

VIA Metropolitan Transit is already moving forward with plans for the Rapid Green Line, which runs North-South along key streets including San Pedro Avenue and St. Mary’s Street. VIA officials confirmed that they have enough funding in place, totaling $446.3 million, for this project. The upcoming Rapid Silver Line will traverse Houston, Market, and Commerce Streets and relies on the county funding to move forward.

While planners envision the Green Line extending from the airport and beyond U.S. Highway 90, the routes for both lines are set to reach further distances than what’s currently depicted on maps.

County Commissioner Votes

The final decision regarding the funding passed with a vote of 3-1-1. Precinct 3 Commissioner Grant Moody opposed the funding, while Precinct 4 Commissioner Tommy Calvert chose to abstain.

Community Engagement and Timeline

VIA plans to engage the community through a series of town hall meetings scheduled for early September. The discussions will aim to gather feedback and address concerns regarding the Silver Line. The meetings are set to take place on:

• Eastside: September 11 from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM at Barbara Jordan Community Center
• Westside: September 12 from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM at Mexican American Unity Council
• Downtown: September 14 from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM at VIA Metropolitan Transit at The Grand

Construction for the Green Line is not expected to kick off until next year, with aims for an opening in late 2027 or early 2028. The Silver Line is still under planning stages, with completion anticipated two years later.

Additional Considerations

The commission also set aside an additional $2 million to offer free rides on both new transit lines during their first year of operation, aiming to encourage ridership and familiarize the community with the new transit options.