HOUSTON – As changes to improve transportation services for riders, Houston METRO announced passengers on two bus routes will be piloting a new service with electric buses.
In a press release, METRO announced the changes have already been made for the 402 Bellaire Quickline, with an all-electric fleet to replace the aging buses. This route serves the Southwest Houston, Bellaire, and Gulfton areas, running from Chinatown to the Medical Center.
Recommended Videos
RELATED: Houston METRO is removing the blue and red high-visibility striping on light rail trains. Here’s why
The 28-OST on Wayside, METRO claims, already has at least five electric buses in its fleet, serving neighborhoods like Fifth Ward.
METRO Board Chair Elizabeth Block called the move a significant step to improve service reliability for low-income and minority communities.
“These improvements are an investment in our customers. The new electric buses meet our broader goals of ensuring the system is accessible, equitable, and helps us close environmental justice gaps,” Brock said in a press statement. “Both routes service some communities that include minority, low-income, and transit-dependent populations. It is so important we provide these customers with an easy and safe choice that they will be excited to ride.”
Aside from creating a more environmentally friendly transit system, the buses’ new features will include USB charging ports, three wheelchair securement areas, and additional spaces for people with disabilities.
METRO says it already operates more than 400 clean-running hybrid buses, but a grant by the Federal Transit Administration will ensure 20 electric buses, and 14 hydrogen fuel cell electric buses in total in the coming years.
PREVIOUS: METRO to get 20 electric buses after $21.6M grant from Federal Transit Administration
Learn more about METRO’s electric buses by clicking here.