It’s an idea whose time has come—again. Passenger rail is back and better than ever, as people across Texas and the nation look for better transportation choices. Here’s how Lone Star Rail District and the LSTAR fit in.
Delivering Freedom from Congested Highways.
Rail adds capacity to the regional transportation system without the disruption and expense of highway expansion. Moreover, increasing rail capacity is as simple as adding another rail car or providing more frequent service. At peak hours LSTAR service can carry the equivalent of two additional lanes on I-35.
Providing Quality Travel Time
Rail offers quality travel time that allows riders the freedom to nap, read, work, or simply enjoy the scenery. In addition, rail travel is predictable, dependable and stress-free.
Revitalizing Our Towns and Cities
Rail brings travelers right into the heart of town or to key destinations like the corridor’s major universities. New rail station areas can become hubs of mixed-use development that adds to local vitality, prosperity and livability.
Connecting Neighborhoods—All Over Texas
Regional rail systems are an important piece of the growing national rail network. The LSTAR will connect cities throughout the corridor for travelers using urban, rural and university transit systems in our region’s communities, and for those arriving via long-distance or proposed high-speed rail from across the state.
Why Take the LSTAR?
- It’s not just a “commuter” rail. Many LSTAR riders will rely on the train to get to work or school. But others will be using it for shopping, sightseeing and recreation, or visiting friends and relatives along the corridor.
- Get to class on time. More than 288,000 students and faculty can travel to one of the 17 campuses within two miles of the LSTAR. That means less traffic on the roads, more time for studying and lesson plans, and less congestion and parking around campus.
- Save time, save money, save the planet. Rail travel allows for predictable journeys without traffic jams and time to work, read or rest en route. It can reduce your out-of-pocket transportation costs, and reduce our emissions and carbon footprint at the same time.
