About Metropolitan transit authority of harris county
Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County, also known as METRO, is a public transportation agency that serves the Greater Houston area. Established in 1978, METRO has been providing reliable and efficient transportation services to the residents of Harris County for over four decades.
METRO's mission is to provide safe, reliable, and affordable transportation options that connect people to jobs, schools, healthcare facilities, and other essential services. The agency operates a comprehensive network of buses and light rail trains that cover more than 1,300 square miles of the Houston metropolitan area.
One of the key features of METRO's service is its commitment to sustainability. The agency has implemented several initiatives aimed at reducing its carbon footprint and promoting eco-friendly practices. For instance, all METRO buses run on clean-burning natural gas instead of diesel fuel. Additionally, the agency has installed solar panels at several bus shelters across the city to power lighting and other amenities.
METRO offers a variety of fare options designed to meet the needs of different riders. These include single-ride tickets for one-time trips as well as day passes and monthly passes for frequent riders. Reduced fares are available for seniors (65+), students (K-12), Medicare recipients, and individuals with disabilities.
In addition to traditional bus routes and light rail lines, METRO also operates several specialized services tailored to specific needs. For example:
- Park & Ride: This service allows commuters from outlying areas to park their cars at designated lots outside the city limits and take express buses into downtown Houston.
- HOV/HOT Lanes: High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes are reserved for vehicles with two or more occupants during peak hours on weekdays; solo drivers can use them by paying a toll via an electronic tag system called EZ TAG.
- METROLift: This door-to-door service provides transportation for individuals who are unable to use regular fixed-route buses due to physical or cognitive disabilities.
METRO is committed not only to providing excellent service but also engaging with its customers through various channels such as social media platforms like Twitter (@METROHouston) where they share updates about their services including any delays or changes in schedules due weather conditions or events happening around town.
Overall Metropolitan Transit Authority Of Harris County provides an essential public service that connects people across Greater Houston while promoting sustainability through eco-friendly practices such as using clean-burning natural gas instead diesel fuel in all their buses which helps reduce carbon emissions into our environment making it safer place live in while still being able get around town efficiently without having worry about traffic congestion during rush hour times thanks HOV/HOT lanes reserved only vehicles carrying two passengers more peak hours weekdays solo drivers can pay tolls via EZ TAG electronic tag system allowing them access these exclusive lanes saving time money when commuting work school appointments etc..