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The Capital Metropolitan Transportation Authority in Austin, Texas, has rolled out new fares and expanded MetroRail service.

Effective Sunday, Capital Metro's new fare structure eliminated most free fares, increased some fares and pass rates, and standardized MetroRail fares. Riders who qualified for free fares now will be charged a reduced fare.

Yesterday, MetroRail began providing a new midday service, offering hourly trips between the Lakeline and downtown stations. Other schedule changes include more reverse commuter trips on daily routes.

Rail connector routes at the MLK and Kramer stations will operate throughout the day to connect to MetroRail's midday service, while downtown rail connector routes will run only during peak morning and afternoon hours.

The fare and schedule changes will enable Capital Metro to provide a "higher-level of quality transit service," agency officials said in a prepared statement.

"We did not take these decisions lightly," said Capital Metro President and Chief Executive Officer Linda Watson. "It has taken many months of development and direction from staff, customers, stakeholders and our board."