This story is part of our Annual Community Guide, which takes a look at some of the biggest stories to watch in Cy-Fair and Harris County in 2019. Stay tuned throughout Wednesday, Jan. 23, as we countdown to the No. 1 story to watch this year.

What we reported

In September, the Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County presented its preliminary METRONext plan for $3 billion worth of improvements to the public transit system through 2040. One possible plan could include extending regional bus services farther into Cypress with a new Park & Ride station in the Fairfield area, and extending services down Hwy. 249 with a new Park & Ride at Louetta Road. Exact locations of the proposed Park & Rides have not been given. METRO funding comes from the 1 percent of sales tax revenue it collects in Harris County.

The latest

METRO plans to share its draft plan with the community in early 2019 and has tentatively scheduled the next round of public meetings to begin in late January. METRO officials said the authority is still aiming for a November bond referendum.