'We will do better': CapMetro addresses rail issues during Austin FC season opener

One day after Austin FC's season opener and the unveiling of CapMetro's new McKalla Station rail stop, transit authority leaders are offering another fare-free day for Red Line services following issues during Saturday's operations.

AUSTIN (KXAN) — One day after Austin FC's season opener and the unveiling of CapMetro's new McKalla Station rail stop, transit authority leaders are offering another fare-free day for Red Line services following issues during Saturday's operations.

"I want to apologize to our rail customers whose experience was impacted by last night's service," said Dottie Watkins, CapMetro president and CEO, in a social media thread. "We are committed to getting this right and we will do better."

Officials celebrated the ribbon cutting ceremony for McKalla Rail Station Saturday morning ahead of the season opener match. Watkins said CapMetro moved more than 4,000 customers on the Red Line Saturday night.

Austin FC's next home match on March 9 correlates with the first weekend of the South by Southwest Conference & Festivals. Watkins said CapMetro crews are working to learn from mistakes made Saturday night in advance of that next home math.

"The $60 million investment we celebrated yesterday morning is not something that will let our community down," she wrote. "It will enhance how we move people, improve placemaking, and support our region's vitality for years to come, in addition to Austin FC related service."

CapMetro will now offer fare-free services for all Red Line customers on March 9.