CapMetro Deadline: Use Paper Passes or Lose Them | The Locally Times
CapMetro riders have until June 1 to spend their paper passes before a system-wide upgrade renders them unusable, with no plan yet announced for unused funds.
CapMetro riders face a looming June 1 deadline to use all existing paper passes or risk losing their value, as the Capital Metropolitan Transportation Authority rolls out a major system-wide farebox upgrade. This critical change impacts how transit fares are processed, requiring passengers to utilize current paper passes ahead of the deadline. ## Transit System Modernization Underway CapMetro is implementing a system-wide farebox upgrade, the agency announced today, March 25, 2026. This advancement in the transit system's infrastructure necessitates that all existing paper passes be used before June 1. CapMetro has not yet detailed the specific nature or benefits of the new farebox technology, nor the exact completion date of the upgrade. Crucially, the agency has not specified what will happen to paper passes not used by the June 1 deadline. Riders holding these passes should plan to use them to avoid losing their value. ## New Hub Supports Local Entrepreneurs Austin's economic landscape is expanding with the launch of the city's first-ever Kiva Hub, an initiative designed to provide crowdfunded microloans for local entrepreneurs. The Austin Economic Development Department, in partnership with global nonprofit Kiva, announced the hub's launch today, March 25, 2026. This program aims to reduce traditional barriers to funding for underserved communities. Entrepreneurs can access zero-percent interest loans ranging from $1,000 to $15,000, with no fees and no minimum credit score required. The initiative also provides small business owners with guidance from a local Capital Access Manager throughout the application process. Austinites can contribute to local business success by investing as little as $25 in these crowdfunded loans, supporting job creation and economic growth. Austin is now one of two designated Kiva Hubs in Texas, joining a global network that leverages community lending to strengthen local economies. The Kiva Hub is scheduled to be featured during Austin Small Business Week, May 4–8, including a dedicated session on microloans on May 7. ## Community Engagements and Safety Updates Local institutions continue to offer resources and manage community safety. The Austin Public Library is hosting 'The Holding Spaces Project' exhibit, available for viewing through March 29, 2026, inviting residents to engage with art and community narratives. Meanwhile, Pflugerville Independent School District (Pflugerville ISD) began accepting new student enrollment for the 2026-27 school year on March 2, 2026, a key process for families planning their children's education. Pre-kindergarten screeners also became available on March 2, though Texas law prohibits processing Pre-K applications until April 1. In environmental news, Travis County Parks activated a burn ban on February 10, 2026. This measure prohibits charcoal or wood grills in county parks, though covered propane stoves are permitted on fire-safe surfaces, addressing fire safety concerns in the region. Additionally, the Barton Springs-Edwards Aquifer Conservation District entered Stage 3 Exceptional Drought in February 2026, indicating ongoing efforts to manage regional water resources. The District was created by the Texas Legislature in 1987 to protect the Edwards and Trinity aquifers in the region. ## Key Questions **What happens to CapMetro paper passes not used by June 1?** CapMetro's announcement does not specify what will occur with paper passes that remain unused after the June 1 deadline. **How can local entrepreneurs apply for Kiva microloans?** Entrepreneurs can learn more about coaching, events, or apply for funding by visiting the Austin Kiva Hub website. **When can families enroll new students for the upcoming school year?** Pflugerville ISD began accepting new student enrollment for the 2026-27 school year on March 2, 2026, with Pre-K screeners also available since that date.