METRO is pleased to confirm that its Board of Directors has been briefed, guided by an independent study by EY, on a clear path to ensure continuity of the Community Connector microtransit service as it transitions from a pilot into a scalable, forward-looking service that is integrated into METRO’s broader transit offerings.

The Community Connector is an on-demand rideshare service that offers flexible, affordable rides to METRO bus stops, rail stations and other destinations within a defined zone.  

“From the beginning, the Community Connector pilot was about listening. Listening to riders, to neighborhoods, and to the people who rely on public transportation every day,” said City of Houston Mayor John Whitmire. “I’m proud of the role we played in this program, but even more proud of METRO for stepping forward to lead this service into its next chapter. This is what progress looks like in Houston: collaboration and a shared commitment to making it easier for everyone to get where they need to go.”  

As part of the transition, the METRO Board authorized a funding increase to its existing contract with MV Transportation, Inc. that will allow for the addition of the Community Connector service. The contract includes operation of its broader on-demand mobility offerings, and this approach ensures uninterrupted service for riders.  

“We anticipated that with the rapid growth in ridership and overwhelming public support, this was the direction we needed to take, and the results of the EY study have solidified that path,” said METRO Board Chair Elizabeth Gonzalez Brock. “We’re proud to provide a service that finally helps solve the first-and-last mile challenge. We’re now able to support more customers who depend on it for essential trips—like after school programs, medical appointments and access to transit. This also entices new riders to choose METRO.”  

METRO will continue to monitor performance and gather rider feedback as the Community Connector moves toward full integration within the broader transit network. 

For more information, visit RideMETRO.org.