Questions & Answers: About METRO

We recommend you first visit our Careers page to see the variety of positions we staff, benefits we offer, organizational development opportunities and more. If you'd like to go directly to our current job postings, please follow the guidance below.

For non-METRO employees:

View all current METRO career opportunities here.

For METRO employees:

If you're logged in to the METRO network, you can see what’s available and apply by accessing the METROWorks Portal on METRO’s intranet site.

If you're outside the METRO network, you can see what's available and apply by logging in with your METRO username and password.

All applications must be submitted online.

Every job description page has an apply now button. Just click or tap that button to log in to your current account. If you’re a first-time applicant, you’ll be asked to create a new account with an option to receive future notifications about new job postings. 

Once you’re logged in, you can complete and submit your application.

The METRO application process is mobile-friendly, so you can easily apply from a computer, phone or tablet.

After you apply for a position, you’ll receive an email confirmation letting you know your application was received.

If you meet the minimum qualifications and are advanced through the process, you’ll receive an email notification.

An email notification will also be sent if you’re not advanced in the process. Reasons for this could include an incomplete application and/or not meeting the minimum requirements for the position.

You can always log in to your online profile to check your current application status as well.

If you have further questions about your application, please contact our staffing team.

The length of the hiring process varies by position.

For union employees:

METRO offers a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• Flexible spending accounts
• Life insurance and AD&D
• Short-term disability
• Wellness incentives

You're not required to enroll in every health plan. You may select medical only, dental only or vision only.

Changes can only be made to your health benefits during Annual Enrollment or if you have a Qualifying Event such as the birth or adoption of a child, marriage, divorce. death or your spouse or dependent child having lost or gained health coverage.

Access detailed benefits information on the Health and Welfare Trust website.

For non-union employees:

METRO offers a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• Flexible spending accounts
• Life insurance and AD&D
• Disability and leave benefits
• Various forms of insurance coverage
• Wellness incentives

You're not required to enroll in every health plan. You may select medical only, dental only or vision only.

Changes can only be made to your health benefits during Annual Enrollment or if you have a Qualifying Event such as the birth or adoption of a child, marriage, divorce. death or your spouse or dependent child having lost or gained health coverage.

Access detailed benefits information by viewing our benefits guide PDF.

For full-time, union employees:

Paid time off (PTO) is determined as follows (certain restrictions and stipulations apply):

*A vacation week consists of seven consecutive days including an employee's day off.

Paid time off (PTO) is also made up of the following per calendar year:

• Nine designated holidays
• Eight hours of birthday pay
• Eight hours of anniversary date pay

Employee days and paid holidays may not be carried over from year to year.

Full-time union employees who have completed at least six months of employment with METRO are also eligible to receive paid sick days, if needed.

For full-time, non-union employees:

Paid time off (PTO) is determined as follows (certain restrictions and stipulations apply):

Paid time off (PTO) is also made up of the following per calendar year:

• Three employee days (after six months of employment)
• Up to four well days (after three months of employment)
• Nine designated holidays

Employee days and paid holidays may not be carried over from year to year.

The six month waiting period for paid vacation credits is waived for hourly employees who transfer to salaried status with more than six months of employment with METRO.

Full-time, non-union employees also receive a bank of 80 hours for paid sick leave during the calendar year.

METRO observes nine designated holidays during the calendar year:

• New Year’s Day
• Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
• Memorial Day
• Juneteenth
• Independence Day
• Labor Day
• Thanksgiving Day
• Day after Thanksgiving
• Christmas

Union employees who perform work on recognized holidays earn eight hours of holiday pay at their regular rate, plus pay for actual hours worked on the holiday at the rate of 1.5 times their regular rate of pay. If a holiday falls on an employees' day off, that employee will still receive holiday pay.

Employees may elect to continue healthcare coverage up to 18 months upon leaving METRO, or up to 36 months in the event of a qualifying status change.

Under federal guidelines, to continue COBRA insurance coverage the COBRA recipient must pay 102% of the combined employer and employee rates.

Yes. For newly hired, full-time union and non-union employees, METRO offers both of the following:

• 457(b) deferred compensation plan
• 401(a) defined contribution plan

Both are administered by Empower Retirement.

METRO automatically contributes 2% of your annual salary to your 401(a).

Additionally, if you choose to contribute money to your 457(b) deferred compensation plan, METRO will match your contribution up to 4% and put it in your 401(a). That money will not appear on your paycheck; it's deposited directly in your 401(a) retirement plan.

To receive retirement funds from your 401(a), newly hired, full-time union and non-union employees must meet both of the following eligibility requirements:

• Work at METRO for a minimum of two years
• Work at least 1,000 hours per year

The vesting schedule is as follows:

Non-union employees:

You qualify for normal retirement at age 65, with five years of vested service.

You qualify for early retirement if you meet either of these criteria:

• Age 55, with 15 years vested service
• Age 60, with five years vested service

Union employees:

You qualify for normal retirement if you meet either of these criteria:

• Age 60, with five years vested service
• Any age with 28 years vested service

You qualify for early retirement at age 55 with 25 years vested service.

All retirees (both union and non-union) receive $20,000 in life insurance at no cost.

Yes. All regular, full-time union and non-union employees are eligible to receive up to $5,000 in tuition reimbursement per calendar year when attending an accredited school. To be eligible, an employee needs to complete six months of employment with METRO prior to the start of the course, degree or certification.

Yes. All METRO employees receive a transit pass for themselves and a spouse (if applicable). The pass entitles the user to ride the following METRO transit services free of charge at all times:

• Local bus
• Park & Ride commuter express bus
• METRORail
• METRORapid
• METRO curb2curb

Working remotely isn’t suitable for all positions. No employee is entitled to, nor guaranteed the opportunity to, telecommute.

Telecommuting schedules are determined at the department management’s discretion, consistent with the operational needs of the department.

No teleworker will be considered 100% full-time remote. Teleworkers may be required to spend a minimum number of workdays per week, pay period, or month at their regular METRO worksite. Teleworkers may be required to attend all assigned meetings or be present in the office on a regularly scheduled telecommuting day. When possible, management will provide as much advance notice as possible of a change to the employee’s telecommuting schedule.

All telecommuting work week schedules may change or be terminated at any time at the request of the employee’s department management.

Yes. METRO employees are eligible for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. Certain restrictions apply. You can find out more about the program here.

Yes. Leave of absence options available to METRO employees are:

• Family Medical Leave (FMLA)
• Intermittent and reduced schedule leave
• Personal leave of absence
• Military Leave
• Qualifying exigency leave
• Military caregiver leave
• Short-term disability leave of absence
• Long-term disability leave of absence
• Medical leave of absence (Union employees only)

Yes. METRO provides a monthly, after-tax benefit of $200 to provide assistance with child care. To receive the benefit, employees must register with the TOOTRiS child care technology platform which connects parents and providers. If you currently use a child care facility that isn't on the TOOTRiS platform, TOOTRiS will work with that facility to get them signed up.

Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) is when homes, stores and/or other amenities are built close to public transportation routes and stops. This makes it easier for people to get around without having to use a car.

The Tidwell TOD Plan is a pilot program to explore transit-oriented development at the existing Tidwell Transit Center and the area surrounding it.

The Tidwell TOD Plan recommends projects and policies that will:

• Enhance connectivity
• Promote walkability and sustainability
• Support equity through economic development and affordable housing

The Tidwell TOD Plan includes:

• Design concepts that show the potential redevelopment of the area around the Tidwell Transit Center and potential improvements to the transportation network
• Plans for future METRORapid service at and in the area surrounding the Tidwell Transit Center
• Assessments of housing, economic development, mobility and market conditions in and around the Tidwell Transit Center

The Tidwell Transit Center currently serves three local bus routes:

• 6 Jensen / Greens
• 45 Tidwell
• 83 Lee Road - JFK

The Tidwell Transit Center is expected to be the northern end of the line for the proposed 25.3 mile METRORapid University Corridor Project.

The Tidwell Transit Center property is owned by METRO, but the plan looks at the surrounding area beyond the transit center. Any identifiable improvements to non-METRO property could potentially be partially or fully funded by METRO.

Below is the project timeline. All dates are subject to change. 

Phase 1: Discovery
April - July 2023

The planning process began in April 2023, and the first Open House was held in June.

Phase 2: Evaluate
August - September 2023

The second Open House was held in August. Public input was evaluated and an initial plan was created.

Phase 3: Synthesize
September - December 2023

The plan, which can be viewed here, was shared with the community in October and presented to METRO's Board of Directors in November. A final review will occur, and the plan is expected to be completed in December.

METRO received funding from the Federal Transit Administration under the "Pilot Program for TOD Planning" grant and a local match contribution.

The estimated cost is approximately $470,000 to create the plan.

Provide written feedback for the project team

Send questions, suggestions and general comments about the project here.

Residents, business owners, organizers and community members in the Eastex-Jensen neighborhood should:

• Sign up for project updates using your email or mobile number. We will send out communication when there are open houses, meetings and surveys
• Send any questions, suggestions or general comments to us using our public comments portal
• Participate in public input surveys
• Attend public meetings. A listing of scheduled meetings can be found in the Events tab

METRO needs input from the community since you are the ones who live, work and experience the area every day. Your feedback will be incorporated into the plan to identify potential improvements that will directly benefit existing and future community members in the area.

At various times during the project, we'll be holding public meetings to seek community feedback. When events are confirmed, a calendar listing will be posted in the Events section located in the area below.

METRORapid is a transit service that combines elements of light rail and bus to deliver faster connections and a smooth, convenient ride.

It features:

• Modern design offering 100% accessibility, with wider doorways and level boarding
• Outstanding customer amenities such as station-like platforms at every stop
• Dedicated, transit-only lane to move through traffic
• Convenient schedule for easy trip planning

The new METRORapid Inner Katy line will provide:

Fast and frequent service

Universally accessible service for all between Downtown and Uptown throughout the day, at night and on weekends.

Faster and more reliable trips

The project will accommodate all METRO Regional Express trips along the I-10 West and Hwy. 290 NW freeways that currently get bogged down in traffic between I-610 and Downtown. Transit-only lanes in both directions will help reduce travel time and improve schedule reliability for thousands of current riders.

More connectivity

At Northwest Transit Center:

• Create direct connection with METRORapid Silver Line so you can ride from Downtown to Uptown without having to transfer
• Link with several METRO local and Regional Express routes – increasing connectivity to destinations like Texas Medical Center, Greenway Plaza, Memorial Park and Westchase

The project will also provide a fast connection between the METRORapid Silver Line and the METRORail Green and Purple Lines.

More access

• Serve current riders
• Accommodate expected population growth in this area
• Improve access to jobs and economic opportunity

Significant property impacts are not anticipated. METRO expects determinations to be made during the final design phase. As always, we’ll adhere to all federal requirements regarding potential property acquisition.

The METRONext Moving Forward Plan identified a general alignment within the Inner Katy corridor. With input from community stakeholders, METRO conducted a detailed evaluation of the corridor and potential alignment options. The recommendation for the locally preferred alternative (LPA) was presented to the public for feedback in January 2022. METRO Board of Directors approved the LPA in March 2022.

The METRORapid Inner Katy Project is a separate project being developed by METRO. It will be designed to connect with the METRORapid Silver Line at the Northwest Transit Center and enable you to connect between Uptown and Downtown without transferring.

During the planning phase, METRO evaluated potential station locations between Northwest Transit Center and downtown Houston. We assessed the following locations identified in the METRONext Moving Forward Plan, which were ultimately included in the locally preferred alternative (LPA) approved by the METRO Board in March 2022:

• Shepherd Street/Durham Street
• Studemont Street
• Theater District
• Central Station
• Convention District

We also evaluated additional potential station locations suggested by the community. Based on this input along with planning studies, the project’s LPA also proposes stations at:

• Memorial Park
• Franklin Street / Bagby Street
• St. Emanuel Street / EaDo (East Downtown)

Based on input from the community, METRO is evaluating how existing and future pedestrian, bicycle and local bus route connections will be integrated with stations.

The METRORapid Inner Katy Corridor Project is planned to provide daily rapid transit service during the day and night. The frequency is expected to be similar to METRORail.

The first phase of the Inner Katy Corridor Project is between Northwest Transit Center and downtown Houston. Planning and design of a connection to the high-speed rail line will be conducted at a later date depending on the progress of the high speed rail project.

The project began in late 2020. The planning phase occurred from late 2020 through early 2022. Environmental studies occurred from early 2021 through late 2022 and will be followed by design. Construction is expected to begin about a year after design is complete. Construction completion and the beginning of service is expected in early 2028. Public and stakeholder engagement is ongoing and will continue throughout the timeline.

METRO is currently in the planning phase, evaluating the features of the project. Once an alignment (route) is determined, we will have more information.

This project is funded via the Houston-Galveston Area Council's Transportation Improvement Program.

Yes. On January 23, 2023, the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) notified METRO that the project met the criteria under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) categorical exclusion (CE). Access a copy of that letter and other related materials here.

METRO doesn’t expect an increase in air pollution. Any reduction in automobile travel as a result of having new transit options generally has a positive effect on air quality.

Overall, noise impacts are expected to be minimal compared with existing freeway noise. A noise analysis has been conducted. Access a copy of that analysis here.

METRO will look for ways to accommodate new technologies for the project.

This project is part of the METRONext Moving Forward Plan, to create faster, more reliable and more frequent service. The project will:

Deliver on voter-approved plan

The Gulfton Corridor project was a key component of the plan, which was approved by nearly 70% of area voters in 2019.

Increase mobility

The Gulfton Corridor is home to some of the region's highest transit demand and the most congested streets. Currently, buses in the corridor operate in mixed traffic. This reduces the efficiency for METRO customers and impacts motorists as they wait for buses to load and unload passengers in a shared lane.

METRORapid is a transit service that combines elements of light rail and bus to deliver faster connections and a smooth, convenient ride.

It features:

• Modern design offering 100% accessibility, with wider doorways and level boarding
• Outstanding customer amenities such as station-like platforms at every stop
• Dedicated, transit-only lane to move through traffic
• Convenient schedule for easy trip planning

The METRORapid Gulfton Corridor project will provide:

Frequent service to key destinations

Universally accessible service to multiple residential, business and education centers.

More reliable trips

Transit-only lanes will help reduce travel time and improve schedule reliability for riders.

More connectivity

The line would connect with:

• Various local METRO bus routes
• METRORapid Silver Line in Uptown / Galleria
• Multiple METRO transit centers

More access

• Expands access to transfer opportunities at the Westpark / Lower Uptown Transit Center and the Northwest Transit Center
• Accommodate expected population growth in the region
• Improve access to jobs and economic opportunities

The line will offer a continuous ride from Gulfton to northwest Houston. It will serve the following communities and more:

• Gulfton
• Sharpstown
• Uptown / Galleria

Yes, with input from community stakeholders, local elected officials, civic and homeowner associations, business owners, individual community members and property managers. METRO conducted a detailed evaluation of the corridor and potential alignment options. The recommendation for the locally preferred alternative (LPA) route was unanimously approved by METRO Board of Directors in August 2023.

The METRORapid Gulfton Project is a separate project being developed by METRO. It will be designed to connect with the METRORapid Silver Line at the Westpark / Lower Uptown Transit Center and enable you to reach the Northwest Transit Center. Once there you can transfer to downtown Houston.

The METRONext Moving Forward Plan was approved by Houston area voters in November 2019. Planning for the METRORapid Gulfton Corridor Project began in 2022. Public meetings and input opportunities occurred in late 2022, after which the locally preferred alternative (LPA) route was selected in August 2023.  Conceptual design and environmental work are in progress. In 2024, METRO anticipates receiving federal funding and completing the final design. Construction is anticipated to last about two years.

METRO is currently in the planning phase, evaluating the features of the project. Detailed cost estimates have not yet been developed. Once an alignment (route) is determined, we will have more information.

METRO is exploring federal funding opportunities and other grant programs.

The study will look at the potential impact of this project on air quality, noise, traffic, land use, historic and cultural resources, and water quality, among many other factors. It is expected to be completed in early 2024.

METRO is also exploring possible use of zero emission vehicles.

No significant property impacts are anticipated. Additional information will become available as the planning and designing phases progress. METRO will adhere to all federal requirements in the event property needs to be acquired.

METRO knows that trees and a "Greener Gulfton" are important to the area. Our intent during the design process is to protect and preserve existing trees.

METRORapid is a top-of-the-line service that operates like light rail to deliver faster connections and a smooth, convenient ride.

It features:

• Modern design offering 100% accessibility, with wider doorways and level boarding
• Outstanding customer amenities such as station-like platforms at every stop
• Dedicated, transit-only lane to move through traffic
• Convenient schedule for easy trip planning

The maximum capacity of a METRORapid vehicle is estimated at 126.

This project is part of the METRONext Moving Forward Plan, to create faster, more reliable and more frequent service. The project will:

Deliver on voter-approved plan

The University Corridor project was a key component of the plan, which was approved by nearly 70% of area voters in 2019.

Increase mobility

The University Corridor is home to some of the region's busiest and most congested streets. Currently, buses in the corridor operate in mixed traffic. This reduces the efficiency for METRO customers and impacts motorists as they wait for buses to load and unload passengers in a shared lane.

The new METRORapid University line will provide:

Frequent service to key destinations

Universally accessible service to multiple residential, business and education centers.

More reliable trips

Transit-only lanes will help reduce travel time and improve schedule reliability for riders.

More connectivity

The line would connect with:

• Various local METRO bus routes
• METRORail Red, Green and Purple Lines
• METRORapid Silver Line in Uptown
• Multiple METRO Park & Ride facilities
• Multiple METRO transit centers

More access

• Serve current riders
• Accommodate expected population growth in the region
• Improve access to jobs and economic opportunity

The line will offer a one-seat ride from Westchase to northeast Houston. It will serve the following communities and more:

• Westchase
• Gulfton
• Sharpstown
• Uptown
• Greenway / Upper Kirby
• Montrose
• Midtown
• Greater Third Ward
• Greater Eastwood
• Second Ward
• Greater Fifth Ward
• Denver Harbor
• Kashmere Gardens
• Eastex / Jensen

The line will run past or nearby to:

• Houston Community College (four Campuses)
• University of St. Thomas
• Texas Southern University
• University of Houston (Main Campus)

At the Westpark / Lower Uptown Transit Center, you can transfer to the METRORapid Silver Line. That line runs along Post Oak Blvd. through the Galleria area before ending at the Northwest Transit Center.

Along the University line, you’ll also be able to connect with:

• Over 50 METRO local bus routes
• METRORail Red, Green and Purple Line
• 377 Kashmere Late Night - curb2curb
• Multiple METRO Park & Ride facilities
• Multiple METRO transit centers

The project began in early 2021. Project Development (which includes planning, adoption of a locally preferred alternative, environmental study and 30% design) is expected to be complete in 2024.

In April 2023, the METRO Board of Directors approved what is referred to as a Locally Preferred Alternative (LPA), which identifies the route that best meets the needs of the community for this new service.

In November 2023, the Federal Transit Administration made a favorable National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) determination. This confirms that the project does not pose any significant environmental impacts.

Construction is now expected to begin summer 2026. It’s anticipated that construction will last about four years with a start of service now planned for 2030. Public and stakeholder engagement is ongoing and will continue throughout the project.

At this early stage of the project, there are initial project cost estimates that will be refined and adjusted based on design and engineering that will occur in the coming months. METRO is working with the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and will be requesting up to 60% federal match under the Capital Investment Grants (CIG) Program. We are continuing to monitor the market conditions as we refine our concepts and associated cost estimates. This information will be updated as project costs are finalized.

METRO has indicated to the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) that we will be requesting up to 60% federal match under the Capital Investment Grants (CIG) Program. The remaining funds will be generated through METRO bond funding capacity as authorized by Houston area voters who overwhelmingly approved the METRONext Moving Forward Plan in 2019.

The environmental study has been completed. After review the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) determined that the project does not pose any significant environmental impacts. The FTA determination letter is available to view here.

The Categorical Exclusion Checklist/Report summarizes the project’s potential environmental impact on air quality, noise, traffic, land use, historical and cultural resources, and water quality, among other factors. The  Categorical Exclusion Checklist/Report and the Appendices to the report are available for viewing.

The project goal is to stay within the existing right-of-way as much as possible. However, METRO anticipates some right-of-way will need to be purchased to accommodate stations, at elevated structures. This will be necessary to address left turns, at certain locations for vehicle traffic, and to improve universal accessibility to meet current City of Houston standards. METRO's intent is to minimize the need for these acquisitions.

METRO continues its assessments of the trees in the right of way. Our intent is to save as many trees as possible during the design process. METRO will develop a tree mitigation plan for any tree removals to be replaced along the corridor and in the vicinity of the project limits.

In addition, we're studying the optimization of sidewalks and preservation of trees along the corridor.

• Sign up for project updates using your email or mobile number. We will send out communication when there are open houses, meetings and surveys.
• Send any questions, suggestions or general comments to us using our public comments portal.
• Participate in public input surveys.
• Attend public meetings. A listing of scheduled meetings can be found in the Events tab.

The current Rail Operations Center is located seven miles south of the METRORail hub in Downtown Houston. With its end-of-the-line location, this facility isn’t centrally located.

To support and improve operations on all three light rail lines, METRO is planning to construct a new centrally located maintenance facility.

The facility is planned for a location near the intersection of Keene Street and Trentham Place. This is near the Burnett Transit Center / Casa de Amigos rail station.

It will be a two-story building designed to blend in with the neighborhood. The building will not block views of the Downtown Houston skyline.

In addition, sidewalks will be installed with the reconstruction of portions of Brooks and Keene Streets.

Benefits include:

• Camera-monitoring, with METRO Police patrol
• Sidewalk and street improvements on Brooks and Keene Streets
• Improved drainage on Brooks and Keene Streets

Yes, because the facility will be monitored by cameras and it will be part of the METRO Police Department’s patrols.

The project calls for a traffic signal to be relocated from Brooks Street to Trentham Place / Burnett Street along North Main Street. This offers two benefits:

• Address the frequent unprotected turns that take place to and from Burnett Street
• Mitigate the minimal traffic impacts from the new facility

It will not impact the White Oak Bayou trail or access to the trail system.

METRO is adhering to a federally-mandated environmental clearance process to ensure the facility has no substantial impacts onsite or to the surrounding community.

Most activities will occur in enclosed spaces within the building. The equipment laydown yard will only be used for storage, with minimal noise-generating activity. No substantial impacts to air quality are anticipated.

There will be an onsite storm water detention for the facility. Plus, portions of Brooks and Keene Streets will be reconstructed and the drainage will be improved along those streets.

METRO is seeking to improve the customer experience by replacing the existing transit center and building a new garage facility near the existing property.

Facility Enhancements:

• Parking for approximately 500 vehicles in a multi-level garage
• Full-service transit center seamlessly linking METRO services for the Northside community
• Attractive landscaping

Service Enhancements:

• Modern facility design to move buses easily in and out of the transit center
• Covered bus bays
• Convenient connections to Downtown, Texas Medical Center, and other locations with service options

Safety Enhancements:

• Reduced walking distance for customers
• Camera-monitored facility with METRO Police patrol
• Traffic signals to maintain consistent traffic flow

The Northline Transit Center project estimate at this stage is approximately $40 million. METRO will continue to seek Federal Transit Administration funding and there may be opportunities for private partners to participate in the project through Transit Oriented Development opportunities.

METRO has contacted property owners that may potentially be affected by the project and will continue to keep them informed as we go through the design process. The METRO Real Estate department will follow all policies and procedures relative to notification, negotiation, and purchase of any property in the area.

No, that has not been done. However, historically, transit investments have tended to increase property values by improving access and connectivity. METRO relies on qualified and recognized property appraisers who have the expertise to value property and analyze market trends. As an example, from 2014 to 2018, the Harris County Appraisal District found a 40-60% growth rate in areas closest to the METRO Red Line corridor.

The proposed parking structure would hold approximately 500 vehicles. METRO proposes a new traffic signal at the transit center entrance that would be coordinated with the other traffic signals on Fulton Street. Further, METRO will work with the City of Houston to improve traffic flow in the area.

Initially, no new bus routes are proposed for the area. However, METRO regularly evaluates bus service and makes modifications as needed. It’s METRO practice to engage the public prior to any new service proposal or change to existing service and provide opportunities for input.

METRO will take existing and potential traffic patterns into consideration. We’ll work with the City of Houston and/or other regional partners to improve traffic flow by installing traffic signals and making other necessary improvements.

Conceptual plans include an enclosed space for a variety of possible uses.

Companies are invoiced for all activity during the first week of every month. Invoices are payable in full within 30 days from the date of the invoice.

• Private employers
• Nonprofits
• Public agencies
• Federal government agencies
• Educational institutions

You can manage your employees’ METRO Q Fare Cards online. You have the option of setting up a monthly automatic reload called a subscription, or you can opt to do periodic manual reloads to the fare cards.

With our Emergency Guaranteed Ride Home service, riders can get a ride home in the event of a midday emergency, up to three times per calendar year. In addition, METRO guarantees a ride home if there’s ever an equipment failure that cannot be resolved within one hour. This free program is available to all bus patrons whose route does not offer midday service. They must be registered and it’s easy to apply.

It functions like a debit card for riding METRO. Money is automatically deducted each time the user pays their fare. The card can be used on any of the following services:

• Local bus
• Park & Ride commuter express bus
• METRORail
• METRORapid
• METRO curb2curb

For all services except Park & Ride bus service, the regular fare to board is $1.25 and the discounted fare is 60 cents. For Park & Ride bus service, the regular fare to board ranges from $2-8 depending on your location. The discounted fare is half price.

Cards are provided free of charge to Corporate RideSponsors, for distribution to employees. We encourage employees to register their card. This protects its account balance if the card gets lost. To register a card for free, employees can visit any METRO RideStore location or contact Customer Service at 713-635-4000.

Businesses like yours can offer no-cost transit benefits to employees through our Distributor program. Providing on-site access to METRO Q® Fare Cards is completely free and requires minimal effort. You provide the METRO fare cards and your employees can load funds onto them when ready to ride.

The maximum amount is $500 for each wallet on the card.

Both options are possible. You can request that all cards initially be registered to the company, or you can choose to have each employee register their own card and allow them to add money to a second wallet belonging to the employee. This option would allow two wallets on one card; the employer and employee.

Yes. Corporate RideSponsor-issued cards are automatically registered to the company, unless the Corporate RideSponsor elects to have the cards registered to their employees.

All registered cards can have the value transferred to a replacement card by METRO at the 1900 Main Street location.

Yes. You can make it a policy that all cards are company property, which means that employees would need to procure a second card strictly for personal use.

If you’re outside the service area but have customers who use METRO services, you can participate.

No. All discounted fare cards have to be obtained online or at a METRO RideStore.

Call us at 713-739-4806 for phone tech support, available from Monday-Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm and outside these hours when availability permits. If we’re not able to resolve the issue over the phone, we will schedule an in-person tech support visit at your location.

Yes. You can choose any minimum reload amount you want, including no minimum.

The program is free except for the discount you need to honor when a customer shows a valid fare item. It’s up to you what discount to offer. Typical discounts are:

• 10-15% off
• $1.00-2.00 off
• Free drink or side item
• Buy one, get one free

The program operates under the assumption that anyone presenting a valid METRO fare item gets the discount. Riders can show the cashier one of these valid fare items:

• METRO Q Card
• RideMETRO app ticket
• METRO Day Pass
• METRO Money Card
• METRO Student Q Card
• METRO Veterans Pass
• Jury summons
• Paper ticket
• METRO Convention Pass

We’ll feature your business logo, address and discount offer on our website, in social media posts and in email newsletters, giving you increased visibility to a broad audience.

Though we can’t predict how much additional business you may have, our goal is to increase awareness of your business among our riders.

Agreements are for a minimum of one year. You have the option to end your participation after one year, or renew the agreement for another year.

You can make changes to your Rider Rewards offer anytime. Just notify us at RiderRewards@RideMETRO.org at least two weeks prior to the effective date.

Your company covers employee transportation costs when they commute via mass transit (bus or vanpool). Employees don't pay taxes on the value of this benefit.

Your company shares transit commuting costs with employees and everyone can receive valuable tax savings. Employers can provide a portion of the cost of taking transit or vanpooling as a tax-free benefit and allow the employee to exchange taxable salary for a tax-free bus or vanpool benefit.

It's when you offer employees the option to “cash out” of their existing parking space. In other words, you can offer your employees their parking space cost in the form of taxable salary or tax-free transportation benefits.

No. When employees exchange taxable salary for a tax-free bus or vanpool benefit, the amount exchanged isn't subject to payroll taxes. Employees save money because this reduces their amount of taxable income.

No capital investment is required to become a METRO Corporate RideSponsor. You choose your benefit allocation, and the subscription process is automated. A METRO representative will train your company administrator and will always be available to assist and answer questions.

Both employer-paid and employee-paid benefits are exempt from payroll taxes. So, everyone can save on payroll taxes.

Employers can offer employees the option of exchanging up to $300 per month in taxable salary for a tax-free transit or vanpool benefit.

Employers can allocate up to $300 per month for employees to commute using public transit or vanpool. This is a tax-free transit benefit for employees.

The primary criteria for METRO Small Business certification are company size and net worth of the owner(s). The size limits are determined by the SBA standards and the maximum net worth of the owner(s) is $1.32M.

METRO offers a Small Business Enterprise (SBE) Certification for eligible firms. Access the list of SBE certified firms.

METRO also accepts Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) certifications from any DBE certifying agency and the 8(a) certification from the Small Business Administration. Learn more about the Texas Unified Certification Program (TUCP) and see the list of DBE certifying agencies in Texas.

METRO Small Business Enterprise Certification is free of charge.

During the solicitation process the following METRO SBE program requirements are in place for primes responding to solicitations with small business goals. To be deemed responsive:

• All certified and non-certified primes must self-perform a minimum of 30% of the contract value, regardless of the small business participation goal percentage.
• A certified or non-certified prime cannot self-perform 100% of their bid/proposal value.
• All certified and non-certified primes must, at a minimum, meet the small business participation goal percentage.
• All certified primes must subcontract, at a minimum, 50% of the small business participation goal to one or more certified firms.

The METRO SBE Program does not accept Good Faith Effort (GFE) response. Only the participation of METRO SBE certification and DBE certifications (which include SBA-8a) count towards the small business goal.

After the award of a contract, the prime must (but not limited to):

• Adhere to all compliance requirements of the METRO Small Business Enterprise (SBE) and Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) programs
• Get pre-approval from the Office of Economic Business Opportunity (OEBO) prior to removing or adding certified and non-certified subcontractors to the team
• Must utilize the current SBE/DBE compliance tracking and reporting system, B2Gnow
• Replace the removal of a certified firm with another certified firm (determined on a case-by-case basis)
• Involve OEBO in the dispute resolution process on SB-related matters
• Adhere to the Prompt Payment Policy on contracts with small business goals: prime must make payments to subcontractors within five business days of receipt of funds from METRO
• Receive payment from METRO within 15 days of issuance of a properly prepared invoice
• Meet their Small Business Goal Commitment or risk a negative OEBO evaluation on a new solicitation

The OEBO Contract Compliance staff monitor all SBE and DBE activity on all METRO contracts with small business goals and ensures compliance with all local and federal regulations.

If you need assistance in regards to Small Business Contract Compliance, please contact Felicia Davis, OEBO Compliance Manager, at 713-739-4604 or email Felicia.Davis@ridemetro.org.

Access our compliance system to search, renew, or apply to join our database of certified vendors.

Detailed instructions for responding to a solicitation are included in the solicitation document(s). To facilitate the process, METRO recommends the following:

1. Register as a vendor for automatic e-mail notifications of new solicitations and updates that are aligned with your company’s services.
2. Check the METRO website for upcoming procurement opportunities.
3. Attend the METRO pre-bid / pre-proposal conferences.

For additional procurement information, email us at procurement@ridemetro.org.

The METRO SBE Business Assessment collects critical information to help craft the best recommendation on how your firm can effectively compete in the procurement process. This assessment is done via one-on-one sessions and the utilization of the METRO Online SBE Business Assessment Tool.

Yes. Through our business networking forums, you can get tips on doing business with METRO and connecting with decision-makers.

With the goal of maximizing opportunities with the business community, METRO is seeking to build certified small business capacity for the following types of work:

• Rail construction
  • Overhead Catenary Systems (OCS)
  • Traction Power Substations (TPS)
  • Concrete pouring for platform construction
  • Laying track
  • Rail ties
• Bridge construction
• Boring and tunneling
• Major IT equipment (authorized supplier)
• IT (SAP certification and modules)
• Private utilities
• Street sweeping (with water and vacuum option)
• Sound walls
• Specialized trucks (waste removal, fuel tank cleaning, etc.)
• Fuel transportation
• Underground fuel storage tanks
• Personal property claims (non-real estate property)
• Bus wrapping
• Solar energy provider/installer

Yes. To inquire about METRO’s Fast Track SBE certification, email Keandra.Brooks@RideMETRO.org.

Permits and training are free.

Charges per hour are:

METRO will prepare and send you an invoice within 30 days of completion of the work. Payment is due within 30 days of receipt of the invoice.

A Red Tag is required to work within a ten-foot radius of the OCS necessitating a power down.

It’s the area within 15 feet of the centerline of any track.

The Work Zone is the area of work within defined limits, where movement of rail equipment is governed by the Flagger. The Safety Zone is the Trackway, which may include other areas such as the street, shared poles on sidewalks and substations.