Central Texas is undergoing rapid growth, with an ever-increasing population that brings both challenges and opportunities for transportation infrastructure. Cities throughout Bastrop, Cadwell, Hays, Travis, and Williamson Counties have seen dramatic increases in population over the past three decades. For instance, Williamson County grew from 171,387 residents in 1994 to nearly 700,000 in 2022, marking its place as one of the fastest-growing counties in the U.S. This surge is mirrored across the region, reflecting a need for innovative transportation solutions that can adapt to rising demand while reducing environmental impacts.

As our region continues its fast-paced growth, increased traffic congestion creates concerns about air quality issues like NOx and PM2.5 levels increasing to the point of triggering greater federal regulations.

One of the most pressing concerns is the reliance on single-occupancy vehicle commuting. In 2022, over 91% of U.S. households owned at least one vehicle, and more than 22% had three or more. I-35, one of the busiest interstates in the country, going through the Central Texas, handles enormous amounts of commuter and freight traffic. The single-occupancy commuter lifestyle is a major contributor to air pollution, and transitioning to more sustainable alternatives is crucial. To address these issues, the region is increasingly looking toward micro-mobility, transit, and other innovative transportation systems designed to offer residents more options than traditional car use.

What is Micro-Mobility?

Micro-mobility refers to a variety of methods of transportation, often electric-powered, that allow people to travel short distances avoiding the need to use a single-occupancy vehicle either with a shared vehicle, a smaller vehicle, e-biking, biking, scootering or, or walking. These services, such as bike- and scooter-shares, have gained popularity in cities like Austin and San Marcos. These options allow individuals to make short trips—usually under five miles—without the need for a single-passenger car trip reducing traffic congestion and air pollution.

These types of programs are growing so check out your local transit options.  If visiting, check out that city’s transit.  For example the Capital Area Rural Transit System (CARTS), launched an on-demand shuttle service in 2021 in downtown Bastrop and has expanded this service to five additional downtowns.