Officials with the Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County unveiled METRONow in early 2025. The new regional mobility plan was launched with a focus on improving the everyday transit experience by investing in safety, cleanliness, reliability and accessibility.
Now, a year later, METRO officials have released a report highlighting the plan's progress since its inception.
The full story
To date, METRO has invested approximately $65.44 million in roadway repairs and upgrades, according to a report released by the transit authority in April. Projects completed in the first year include:
- Installing or rehabilitating nearly 2,000 bus shelters systemwide with added shade, lighting and seating
- Upgrading 5,600 bus stops citywide to be more accessible
- Completing 320,000 square feet of sidewalk improvements
METRO also launched new routes, including the 500 Downtown Direct line that connects Downtown Houston to both Hobby and George Bush Intercontinental airports.
In addition to new routes, the transit authority has also received 329 new buses, increased police staffing by 26%, launched a new fare system and spent over $23.14 million to expand cleaning efforts at bus stops, transit centers and rail platforms, per the report.
Quote of note
"Our goal at METRO is mobility for all," said METRO Chair Elizabeth Gonzalez Brock in a video about the recent developments. "By growing ridership, making transit an easy option for people to choose and caring for our infrastructure, it will be easier to get around the Houston region."
One more thing
Some other headlines Community Impact has shared about METRO projects and expansion across the last year or two include:
To keep up-to-date with the latest METRO and transportation news, visit www.communityimpact.com/houston/transportation.
