September 16, 2026
Supporting Austin's Future Light Rail System With A Coordinated "Dig Once" Approach
Photo credit: KXAN
Early field investigations and utility assessments are helping lay the groundwork for Austin's future light rail system. Led by Austin Transit Partnership and supported by Austin Rail Constructors (ARC), crews are gathering critical information that will help inform design decisions and support coordinated infrastructure improvements along the future corridor.
A key component of the early work is the project's coordinated "dig once" approach.
“The goal is to identify utility needs early and coordinate necessary underground investigations and utility improvements before major construction advances.”
— Chip Picheloup of Austin Rail Constructors
Photo credit: KXAN
A coordinated "dig once" approach can provide several advantages for complex infrastructure projects:
- Reduces repeated excavation by addressing multiple underground needs during a single construction effort.
- Supports more informed design decisions through field-verified data and early investigations.
- Creates opportunities for city-requested infrastructure enhancements to be considered alongside light rail development.
- Improves coordination among project partners, utilities, and local agencies.
Working within key corridors including Guadalupe Street, 3rd Street, Riverside Drive, and South Congress Avenue, project teams are conducting underground utility investigations, tree surveys, and right-of-way assessments to help inform the design of a future light rail system. As Austin moves forward with plans for its first light rail system, these early investigations represent an important step toward delivering infrastructure that supports connectivity, mobility, and long-term community growth.
Photo credit: KXAN