The Woodlands Township will replace its commuter bus fleet after receiving $25 million in federal funding, with 25 new buses expected to arrive in September and introduce upgraded passenger amenities.
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This week, officials revealed that The Woodlands Township is set to acquire 25 new commuter buses, thanks to $25 million in federal funding granted by the Houston-Galveston Area Council. The upcoming fleet for The Woodlands Express is set to arrive in September, representing a significant advancement in the modernization of one of the area's largest commuter systems.
The Woodlands Express operates routes to key locations such as the Texas Medical Center, Greenway Plaza, the Energy Corridor, and downtown Houston, ranking as the second-largest commuter bus system in the Houston region, following Metro.
Township officials announced that the new buses will take the place of contractor-owned vehicles, providing the community with greater oversight on service quality and future planning.
“The procurement is essential for updating our fleet,” stated Ruthanne Haut, director of Transportation for The Woodlands Township. “This signifies a significant enhancement in traveler comfort and facilities.”
The upcoming buses will include footrests, adjustable air-conditioning vents, charging outlets for mobile devices and laptops, bike racks, and flushing toilets—enhancements that township leaders believe will enhance comfort for daily commuters during long journeys.
Chairman Brad Bailey emphasized that the board ought to consider new branding for the upcoming fleet. “These buses serve as traveling advertisements,” Bailey stated. “This presents an excellent chance to enhance the visibility of our communities.”
The township intends to retain 12 to 14 of the existing buses as a reserve fleet to accommodate service requirements or special events once the new vehicles are delivered, according to Haut.
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