CapMetro considers transit for Apple

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Apple is one step closer to adding 3,600 new jobs to the Austin workforce, but more people means more traffic.

As the city approved an $8.6 million incentive Thursday for the company, Capital Metro is looking to add an extra public transit perk to the area around Apple's current campus in Northwest Austin. This is also where the proposed million-square-foot expansion would go.

Jogging every day on a trail right next to Apple means Ali Merabtne often has trouble finding a place to park.

"It's very bad, the traffic, especially on the rush hour,” Merabtne said.

As man as 3,100 workers are there now. If Apple decides to expand, traffic might be a bigger problem. A lot of people and a lot of cars, but not a lot of options for public transportation.

The bus stop at Research Boulevard is the closest one to Apple, and it is still about a mile away. There are 12 bus stops within a 1.5-mile walking distance of Apple.

When it comes to MetroRail, the Howard Station is about four miles way, and the one at Kramer is about 4.5 miles away.

"Transit is definitely an incentive and on the top of the list," said Linda Watson, Capital Metro president and CEO.

Watson said buses, ride-sharing and telecommuting are among the options her transit group is now considering.

"Of course, Capital Metro said, 'We will do whatever we can to make sure their facility is served,'” she said.

As Apple continues mulling a move to Austin, Watson added that Capital Metro's cooperation could help with their commuter concerns.

"They don't have to spend as much money on parking,” she said. “Their employees don't have to spend time stuck in traffic and congestion getting there."

"Because you don't want to get your workers to work late, you know,” said Merabtne, as he took off down the trail.

Merabtne likes the idea of more jobs and fewer cars. A parking place for him and another attraction for Apple.

"It's good for everybody,” he said.

On top of the city's incentive approval, the state has already pledged $21 million for the company to choose Austin for its expansion. Next week, Travis County will consider another $6 million, then Apple will make its final decision.