MC

Metropolitan Transit Authority Of Harris County

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Company Research Report: METRO (Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County)



Company Overview



  • Name: Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County, Texas (METRO)

  • Mission of the Company: Provide safe, clean, reliable, accessible, and friendly transportation services to a diverse population.

  • Year Founded and Founders: No information is available.

  • Key People in the Company:

  • Elizabeth Gonzalez Brock - Chair (Appointed by the City of Houston Mayor)

  • Robert A. Fry, Jr. - First Vice Chair (Appointed by the mayors of the 14 multi-cities in the METRO service area)

  • Holly Maria Flynn Vilaseca - Second Vice Chair (Appointed by Harris County Commissioners Court)

  • Chad McMillan - Secretary (Appointed by the City of Houston Mayor)

  • Other board members include Judge Kathy Khanh Han, Alexandra del Moral Mealer, Terry Morales, Rev. T. Leon Preston, and Roberto Treviño, P.E.

  • Headquarters: 1900 Main St., Houston, Texas 77002

  • Number of Employees: No information is available.

  • Revenue: No information is available.

  • What is the Company Known For: METRO is known for its comprehensive transportation services in Houston, including local buses, express Park & Ride services, light rail, METRORapid, paratransit services, vanpool services, and specialized HOV/HOT lanes.


Products



Product Offerings



1. Local Bus Service
  • Description: More than 80 routes with thousands of shelters and stops.

  • Key Features: All buses are ADA accessible, offer free Wi-Fi, come with video surveillance security cameras, and can carry up to two bikes with front-loading bike racks.


2. Park & Ride Bus
  • Description: Express bus service connecting suburban communities to central Houston.

  • Key Features: Dedicated routes and transportation services designed for commuters.


3. METRORail
  • Description: Offers three light rail lines in and around downtown Houston.

  • Key Features: Provides a quick and efficient mode of transportation for daily commuters in a densely populated area.


4. METRORapid
  • Description: A service that operates like a rail but looks like a bus, enhancing the public transportation system.

  • Key Features: Designed to offer rapid, efficient transit similar to light rail systems.


5. METRO curb2curb
  • Description: An on-demand rideshare service for specific communities ensuring connectivity.

  • Key Features: Provides flexibility and reliability to areas not conveniently reached by larger public transit options.


6. METROLift
  • Description: Shared-ride paratransit service for preapproved customers.

  • Key Features: Tailored for individuals who are unable to use fixed-route transit due to disabilities.


Recent Developments



Recent Company Developments



  • Free Transportation Services:

  • METRO is providing free round-trip rides to the polls during specific periods to encourage voter participation.


  • Introduction of Electric Buses:

  • On September 2, 2024, METRO introduced electric buses into its fleet to provide a smoother and quieter ride experience, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and innovation in public transportation.


  • Construction and Service Adaptations:

  • Continued updates on construction projects, including the addition of a third elevator to the Burnett Transit Center to increase accessibility.

  • Notably, HOV/HOT lanes experienced closures due to ongoing construction, reflecting efforts to improve infrastructure.


  • Service Interruptions and Modifications:

  • Announcements related to temporary service interruptions for METRORail Red Line improvements.

  • Service updates provided after natural events, such as Hurricane Beryl, to ensure safe transit resumption.


  • Technological and Infrastructure Projects:

  • Installation of solar panel pilots at two facilities aims to harness solar energy, reflecting METRO's commitment to environmental sustainability.


  • Public Safety and Health Initiatives:

  • During the COVID-19 pandemic, METRO implemented health and safety enhancements, such as installing protective shields, making sanitizers available, expanding cleaning efforts, and mandating masks, culminating in receiving a Certificate of Merit from the American Public Transportation Association in 2021.


Recent Partnerships



  • Partnership Opportunities:

  • METRO engages in several partnership programs, including free advertising opportunities through the Apartment Partner Program, Adopt-a-Stop enhancements, and the Corporate Ride Sponsor initiative, helping local businesses to save on commuting costs.

  • The METRO Star Vanpool service offers transportation benefits to businesses and their employees.