Public transit agency CapMetro's April Fools' Day prank went a little too far for public transit enthusiasts.
On the social media platform X, CapMetro (@CapMetroATX) introduced the CapMetro Ferry, a robust and water-based public transportation concept for Austin, Texas.
Many users didn't think it was funny. To one, it sounded like CapMetro said, "For our April Fools' post we should show everyone a really good idea and then remind them that we won't do it!"
"for our april fools' post we should show everyone a really good idea and then remind them that we won't do it!" https://t.co/9Wdhw9Pph1
— James Rambin (@jamesrambin) April 1, 2026
This hypothetical project had a lot to offer. There would be 10 stops (though a map of the route showed only nine) along the Colorado River, and ferries would arrive every 15 minutes. Weekends would feature extended hours, and the circuit would expand to Red Bud Isle and Pleasant Valley.
What was even more infuriating were all the benefits CapMetro listed.
The project could use the existing waterway to decrease road congestion. It could connect areas with growing populations and be useful to tourists and commuters.
And it clearly would bring a lot of joy to many people.
"Do NOT f*** with me like this," one person said. "I have just been to Australia where every city has a public ferry like this. It's amazing and it would be very simple to implement."
A Fast Company report found that commuters spend a collective $269 billion on driving annually. If streets operated at 81% of their capacity instead of bursting at the seams, however, delays would drop by 35%. Stress and aggression would likely drop as well.
High-speed rail outside of the United States is another transit method that consistently brings delight to travelers. And New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani is working to bolster public transit in the Big Apple with free buses.
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Considering the backlash CapMetro faced on X, Austin could stand to strengthen its transportation systems, too.
"Yeah, this isn't funny considering CapMetro has abysmal public transportation," another X user wrote. "Your joke is a better idea than any proposal that's seen the light of day. Y'all should be embarrassed af."
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