Project Overview

Metro McAllen is exploring ways to improve mobility, access, and connectivity with a proposed Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) route, which connects the North Transfer Hub and McAllen Central Station, with a potential extension to McAllen International Airport. The study will also explore opportunities for new housing, jobs, and services through transit-oriented development (TOD) along the proposed route.

During Phase 1 of the study, you shared valuable feedback on how to improve travel around McAllen, better connect key destinations, and support future housing, jobs, and services along the corridor. Now, we’re sharing the recommended route and asking for your input on what you’d like to see around potential station locations through an online survey.

YOUR VOICE MATTERS. SHARE YOUR FEEDBACK ON WHAT YOU’D LIKE TO SEE AROUND POTENTIAL STATION LOCATIONS. TAKE OUR ONLINE SURVEY TODAY!

Why This Area Matters

Downtown McAllen represents the city’s highest concentration of jobs, services, and destinations, with existing transit activity and strong ridership potential, making it a prime area to support BRT and TOD investment. By combining BRT and TOD, we can maximize community, economic, and mobility benefits.

Study Goals

The BRT study aims to:

• Improve connections between the North Transfer Hub and McAllen Central Station, with a potential extension to McAllen International Airport
• Communicate the vision and benefits of the proposed BRT corridor
• Establish a clear plan to guide decisions and next steps

Study Milestones

Phase 1 - Data Collection (Summer 2026) - COMPLETE

• Analyzed data by reviewing plans and policies to identify mobility, land use, and community needs
• Evaluated corridors to compare route alternatives and identified potential station locations
• Engaged the community through surveys and pop-up events to gather feedback on BRT/TOD needs and route alternatives

Phase 2: Develop Final Plan (Fall/Winter 2026) - IN PROGRESS

• Create a vision for BRT + TOD to define what success looks like and establish guiding principles
• Identify station locations based on network connectivity and TOD opportunities
• Develop station area plans on TOD opportunities near potential BRT stations. Publish final plan with route and station location recommendations, TOD opportunities, and implementation guidelines

Get Involved

Help us improve McAllen transit by participating in our online survey and letting us know what you’d like to see around potential stations.

The survey will close on Friday, December 4, 2026.

Your input will help plan safer and more convenient travel options and improve quality of life in our growing city.

Next Steps

Following community input, the study team will develop and publish the final plan, documenting the recommended route and station locations, identifying Transit Oriented Development opportunities, and establishing guidelines for implementation.

Contact Us

If you have any questions about the study, please contact Mario Delgado, Director of Transit and Downtown Services, using the details below:

FAQs

What is Bus Rapid Transit (BRT)?

Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) is a high-quality bus-based transit system that runs on either shared or dedicated lanes.

What are the benefits to the community?

BRT can bring the following benefits to the community:

• Better connections to jobs, schools, shopping, parks, and community destinations.
• Safer streets with shared or dedicated travel lanes, improved pedestrian crossings, and well-designed stations.
• Less crowded roads by giving people a fast north–south bus service with quick trips and frequent service..
• Cost-effective transportation by providing high-quality service at a lower cost.
• Cleaner air by using electric, hybrid, or low-pollution buses.

What are some important features?

• High-capacity vehicles that can help more people get where they need to go without adding more cars to the road.
• Shared or dedicated lanes and signal priority which allows buses to communicate with traffic signals to keep them moving so they don't get stuck at red lights.
• Onboard Wi-Fi to stay connected on the go and get instant travel updates.
• Level boarding platforms for easier access for riders with mobility devices, strollers, or luggage.
• Real-time arrival displays so you know exactly when your bus is coming.
• Bike-friendly options, like bike racks on board, so you can cycle from your house to the station and then on to your final destination.
• Off-board fare ticketing machines for faster boarding and reduced delays.
• Covered waiting areas with bench seating for comfort and weather protection.

What is Transit Oriented Development (TOD)?

Transit oriented development (TOD) focuses on creating walkable neighborhoods with housing, jobs, and services near public transit.

What are the benefits to the community?

• More ways to get around: It gives everyone more choices. You can easily walk, bike, or hop on a bus to get where you're going instead of always needing a car.
• Neighborhoods for people: It improves daily life with safer streets, comfortable public spaces, and easy access to shops and services.
• A boost for the local community: It encourages new businesses, more visitors, and stronger local investment near transit, making the area a place where more people want to spend time.

What are some important features?

• Pedestrian-friendly buildings such as shops, businesses, services, and sidewalks that connect them all.
• Safe and comfortable streets with wide, shaded sidewalks, secure pedestrian crossings, landscaping, seating, and pedestrian lighting.
• Community gathering spaces, such as plazas, pocket-parks, pop-up parks, and patios.
• Multiple transportation options, including bike lanes, shared mobility services (such as scooters and bikes), secure bicycle parking, and passenger drop-off zones.
• A mix of uses, including housing, retail, businesses, and services.
• Affordable housing that provides homes for the people who rely on transit the most.

Click here to view the study fact sheets:

• English Study Fact Sheet Phase 2
• Spanish Study Fact Sheet Phase 2