Touchdown METRO! Transit Scores Big During CFP Championship

When the 2024 College Football Championship (CFP) swept into Houston from Dec. 29 through Jan. 3, 2024, it wasn't just NRG stadium that shook with excitement. The entire city buzzed with anticipation as a tidal wave of fans eager for touchdowns, tailgates, and all the festivities that come with crowning a national champion arrived. And METRO was ready to deliver them to the heart of the action.

From downtown rallies to the epic clash at NRG Stadium, thousands of excited Michigan Wolverines and Washington Huskies supporters navigated the Bayou City by public transportation. The METRORail Red Line shuttled fans to the stadium and all the championship festivities. One fan eagerly noted the convenience of taking the train to the game.

“I love it — because it’s fast, easy, and everybody was nice,” she said. “It was effortless. Thank you, Houston. We appreciate all you’ve done for us.”

Anticipating the increased traffic, METRO went long with enhanced service. Trains ran more frequently, and standby buses were on hand to quickly clear packed METRORail platforms — ensuring everyone could celebrate safely.

Anticipating the increased traffic, METRO doubled down providing more frequent rail service and standby buses, ensuring fans could celebrate safely.

Nearly 100 METRO volunteers took shifts on rail platforms and near CFP venues, helping guide visitors and hometown fans to their destinations while answering questions about restaurants, shopping, museums, and other area attractions.

They, along with transit operators, mechanics, police, and employees from other METRO departments, provided service and embodied the METRO spirit—demonstrating the Authority’s commitment to safety, excellence, and universal accessibility.

For METRO volunteer Louis Garcia, it was all about helping people. Even though his favorite team — the University of Texas Longhorns — was eliminated after its Sugar Bowl loss, Garcia was excited to see the championship game come to town.

“Helping folks is just something I love to do,” Garcia said with a smile. “I enjoy meeting new people and showing them all that this city has to offer.”

The final whistle may have blown, but one thing's clear: Fans say METRO had a winning transportation plan.

Nearly 100 METRO volunteers took shifts on rail platforms and near CFP venues, helping guide visitors and hometown fans to their destinations.

Watch Video: METRO delivers CFP fans to the heart of the action.