Capital Metro showcases MetroRail

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Capital Metro 's MetroRail will be available for public viewing Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. during an event called "Hop and Shop." The MetroRail will not be officially up and running until Mar. 30, but CapMetro is launching its educational campaign in preparation for the train's start date.

The MetroRail will run from Leander to Downtown Austin starting in March, and CapMetro said it hopes it will encourage many people to start using more public transportation.

There are a couple of opportunities to view the new train:

Thursday from 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

• You can hop on board the train and ask questions about cost, service and travel time. CapMetro has also teamed up with 12 local businesses to offer discounts for those who ride the Dillo.

Saturday from 2:30 p.m. - 4 p.m.

• Santa will be on the new MetroRail in front of the Convention Center and available for pictures.