A multiagency partnership launched an app to help drivers better navigate traffic disruptions in Central Texas.

The Central Texas Construction Partnership Program, a collaboration between several Texas government entities, including the city of Austin and the Texas Department of Transportation, launched the free app earlier this month. The app, called CTXGO, provides Central Texas residents with real-time construction updates, alternative transportation options and roadside assistance resources. It is available on mobile devices and through a companion website.

“Our goal with CTXGO was for our community to have all of the agencies who manage the various roadways around Central Texas to have all that information in one place,” said Kristin Pipkin, a division manager in Austin’s Transportation and Public Works Department. “So, construction work, roadway closures from multiple agencies is captured within one app.”

Craig Scott, chair of UT’s Department of Communication Studies, commutes from near San Antonio four days a week. To avoid rush hour traffic, Scott said he often arrives on campus around 10 a.m. and leaves around 7 p.m. He said CTXGO’s construction alerts could be helpful.

“I usually have about an hour and a half commute,” Scott said. “Definitely the worst part of it is once I get close to Austin.” 

However, Caleb Moynihan, a senior communication studies major who commutes from Fredericksburg twice a week, expressed concerns about the app’s usefulness after exploring it.

“I think, primarily, it is built for people living on the I-35 corridor,” Moynihan said. “It doesn’t expand greatly east or west outside of Austin.” 

CTXGO also encourages commuters to explore alternative transportation through a rewards program, Pipkin said. Users can earn $2.50 for eligible trips using alternative transportation, such as taking the bus or walking. 

“(Students’) everyday trip to and from campus counts as a commute trip,” Pipkin said. “So if they decide to take the CapMetro bus down to campus, or if they take their bike or their scooter, that counts as a trip in the app.”

The city plans to gather feedback and measure the app’s success as it continues to develop. Pipkin said she hopes CTXGO will help commuters navigate major construction projects across Central Texas over the next 10 to 15 years.

“What I hope for CTXGO is that this becomes part of the long-term solution of how we keep Central Texas moving,” Pipkin said.