City launches multi-year transit project linking East Side and Kailak Transit Centre

The San Antonio Transportation and Infrastructure Committee convened on March 18, 2025, to discuss significant developments in local transit projects, particularly focusing on a multi-year bus route initiative. The meeting highlighted the project's financial planning, design progress, and community engagement efforts.

The committee began by outlining the project's financial framework, noting that the cost estimates account for future cost escalations and are based on 10% of the overall project. A key feature of this initiative is its connectivity, linking several important destinations, including Our Lady of the Lake University and the Frost Center on the East Side. The proposed bus route will extend from the East Side Transit Center to the Kailak Transit Center, providing a single-seat ride for passengers.

Project timelines were also discussed, with the committee indicating that construction commenced in early 2022, with an anticipated revenue service launch by the end of 2029. The project is currently at 40% design completion, and environmental documentation is being conducted under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). A draft of the 40% design is expected to be available by May.

Public engagement has been a priority, with two rounds of stakeholder input already conducted to inform the design process. The next significant milestone will occur next year when the committee plans to formally apply for a Small Starts grant. If awarded, construction is projected to begin in early 2027, keeping the project on track for its 2029 opening.

Financially, the project aims to secure approximately 50% of its funding from federal sources, amounting to about $145.3 million. To date, $2.4 million has been received in Surface Transportation Block Grant (STBG) funds, along with a pre-award of $8.1 million from the Capital Investment Grant (CIG) program. Additionally, Bexar County has committed $100 million, providing a crucial local match for the next phase of grant applications.

The committee emphasized the importance of public feedback, which has been gathered from various stakeholders, including bus operators and maintenance crews, to ensure the project meets community needs. Overall, the meeting underscored the committee's commitment to advancing San Antonio's transportation infrastructure through careful planning and community involvement.