Woodlands Express adds new afternoon departure, adjusts commuter routes

The Woodlands Township Transit Department will roll out service updates to The Woodlands Express commuter bus system beginning July 1, 2026, adding a new afternoon departure and extending service to the Texas Medical Center to improve access and better serve rider demand.

The changes include a new 3:10 p.m. departure from downtown Houston to the Research Forest Park & Ride, aimed at easing peak-hour congestion and offering commuters more flexibility in their return trips.

Additionally, the current 3:15 p.m. departure will shift slightly to 3:20 p.m., allowing for improved spacing between buses during the busy afternoon period.

Transit officials also announced that the 8:10 a.m. route from Research Forest will now extend to the Texas Medical Center, one of the region’s largest employment hubs. The extension is expected to provide more direct access for riders traveling to healthcare and related industries.

In contrast, the 1:30 p.m. midday departure from downtown Houston will be discontinued. Officials said the decision reflects shifting rider patterns and a need to prioritize higher-demand afternoon service.

“These adjustments are part of the Township’s ongoing commitment to providing ‘reliable, efficient transit service,’” according to a statement from The Woodlands Township. Officials added that updates are designed to better match “changing needs” of commuters traveling between The Woodlands and Houston.

The township said rider feedback played a role in shaping the service updates and that transit staff will continue monitoring performance following the changes.

Updated schedules and trip-planning tools will be available online and at all park-and-ride locations starting July 1. Riders can also contact the transit department directly for assistance.