The Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County announced in a Jan. 14 news release the expansion of an initiative which aims to increase the amount of law enforcement officers across the system's facilities.

The details

METRONow is the first of a set of initiatives rolled out in the updated regional mobility plan in early 2026 that focuses on increases rider safety on all lines. The program kicked off Nov. 12 on the red line and expanded to the green and purple lines Nov. 25 according to METRO officials.

Per the release, METRO is partnering with the following law enforcement agencies:

• Houston Police Department
• Harris County Sheriff’s Office
• Harris County Precinct 1 Constable’s Office
• Harris County Precinct 6 Constable’s Office
• Harris County Precinct 7 Constable’s Office

“Our number one priority is the safety of our riders, operators and employees,” METRO Police Chief Ban Tien said. “Through METRONow and with the support of our regional partners, we are increasing visibility, strengthening response capabilities, and reinforcing confidence in METRO as a welcoming and reliable transportation option.”

The impact

The initiative was given $86 million in funding in fiscal year 2024-25 from the agency, as previously reported by Community Impact. As a result of the partnership, METRO officials said riders can expect to see additional uniformed officers on trains, buses, platforms and transit centers, and all officers will be working with the METRO Police Department.