Project Overview

Metro McAllen is identifying ways to improve mobility, access, and connectivity between McAllen Central Station and the North Transfer Hub through a bus rapid transit (BRT) route. The study will also explore opportunities for new housing, jobs, and services through transit-oriented development (TOD) along the proposed route.

Help shape the future of transit in McAllen by taking our online survey.

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 McAllen Central Station and the North Transfer Hub
• Communicate the vision and benefits of the proposed BRT corridor
• Establish a clear plan to guide decisions and next steps

Get Involved

Help us improve McAllen transit by participating in our online survey.

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

Next Steps

We are currently reviewing plans and data to understand community needs and improve transit connections. Additionally, we are evaluating potential BRT routes and station locations and gathering community feedback through surveys and pop-up events to help shape priorities and route options.

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.

Study Fact Sheets

Click below to view the study fact sheets:

• English Study Fact Sheet
• Spanish Study Fact Sheet