In a strategic move aimed at improving Houston’s afternoon traffic flow, METRO is implementing new evening HOV ONLY hours on the I-69 North (Eastex) HOV/HOT lane starting Monday, July 7. This initiative is part of the agency’s broader commitment to streamline regional mobility and provide a safer, more reliable travel experience for high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) users.

Under the updated operational guidelines, single-occupant vehicles (SOVs) will no longer be allowed access to the Eastex HOV/HOT lane between 4:30 p.m. and 6:00 p.m., mirroring the evening peak restrictions already in effect across METRO’s other major HOV corridors. The morning HOV restriction from 6:30 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. remains unchanged.

This change was prompted by mounting congestion during evening rush hours, with METRO citing recent field data and rider feedback that pointed to increased slowdowns and inconsistent travel times. By limiting the lane to HOVs during this critical window, METRO aims to maintain free-flowing traffic and ensure a smoother, more efficient ride for carpoolers, vanpools, and transit vehicles.

“Through the METRONow plan, we are focused on improving regional mobility not just for our riders, but for the entire community,” said Tom Jasien, METRO Interim President & CEO. “Keeping our HOV/HOT lanes operating at optimal performance is key to delivering reliability and predictability for Houston’s daily commuters.”

To support this policy shift, METRO is collaborating with its HOV/HOT lane operations contractor and the METRO Police Department to ensure seamless enforcement and system updates. Digital signage and roadway alerts will help inform drivers in real-time as the changes take effect.

The Eastex update is more than just a traffic tweak — it’s a reflection of METRO’s data-driven, rider-focused approach to transportation planning. With Houston’s continued growth and rising demand for efficient mobility solutions, initiatives like these are essential to keeping the city moving.

For the latest updates on METRO service improvements and regional traffic innovations, visit RideMETRO.org or follow @METROHouston on social media.

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