METRO’s University Corridor Project Paves Way to Transportation Transformation

WHEN NEARLY 70 PERCENT OF Houston area voters gave the green light to the METRONext Moving Forward Plan in 2019, it was clear that residents saw the need for a transportation transformation.

Over the last four years, Houston METRO has moved quickly to begin work on many of the more than 40 projects in the plan, and now residents are looking forward to the METRORapid University Corridor Project, which will provide 25.3 miles of accessible BRT service along some of the region’s busiest and most congested streets. Designed to enhance transportation options with improved east-west and north-south connectivity, the project will deliver faster and more reliable service to residential, business and educational centers.

bus only lanes on street — *The METRORapid University Corridor Project will provide 25.3 miles of accessible BRT service along some of the region’s busiest and most congested streets.*

Capital improvements are a significant component as well. Eighty percent of construction costs associated with the METRORapid University Corridor Project will go toward enhancing drainage, roadways and sidewalks along the route.

man in wheelchair checks phone on bus — *Building better transit is ultimately about creating a more just, sustainable and livable city for everyone.*

From the beginning, METRO has collaborated closely with the communities along the corridor to ensure residents understand the benefits and proposed route. Through the agency’s public engagement process, residents can talk directly with planners and engineers to share concerns and give feedback.

Robert Lundin, who owns a home near the future line, said better connectivity is important to him. “The prospect of having a stop near my doorstep that would connect me to universities, downtown and the Texas Medical Center is actually really exciting,” he said.

Ben Chou, who has attended three public meetings, expressed his desire for a convenient transit service that connects people, such as his 95-year-old grandfather, with car-free options. “My grandfather lives in southwest Houston and can’t drive anymore. This service would connect people like him to important destinations like the Chinese Community Center, grocery stores and other vital destinations.”

Building better transit is ultimately about creating a more just, sustainable and livable city for everyone. From supporting more equitable communities by improving access to economic and social opportunities for all residents, to paving the way to a more resilient tomorrow, the METRORapid University Corridor Project will undoubtedly play a critical role in the region’s collective future.

people fill out forms at table at event — From the beginning, METRO has collaborated closely with the communities along the University Corridor to ensure residents understand the benefits and proposed route. Residents can talk directly with planners and engineers through the agency’s public engagement process to share concerns and give feedback.