History Center hosts conversation about Austin’s transportation past and future

Transportation lessons from Austin’s past can shine a light on the mobility challenges of today. That’s the focus of “Off the Rails: Austin’s Commuter Future,” a summit hosted by the Austin History Center and featuring a panel of transportation experts including Austin Transportation, Austin Energy, Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization, Air Central Texas and Commute Solutions. Participants will discuss the transportation challenges Austin faces and present possible solutions. The event is part of the History’s Center’s exhibit on the history of the streetcar in Austin. As the center’s press release says, “Issues that may seem as modern as conflict with ride-hailing companies, electric light rail, mobility and transportation can find their origins in the story of the streetcars. The historical narrative provided by this exhibit will offer a depth of context for a conversation featuring the organizations providing the services and structure that support mobility in our city.” Saturday, May 11, 2 p.m., at the Austin History Center, 810 Guadalupe St. RSVP on Facebook.