Metro Expands 500 Downtown Direct Bus Route to Hobby Airport

New stops added to connect downtown Houston with both major airports.

Published on Mar. 1, 2026

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Metro is expanding its 500 Downtown Direct bus route to include William P. Hobby Airport, in addition to the existing service to George Bush Intercontinental Airport. The expanded route will add several new stops downtown, making it easier for passengers to access both major airports from the city center.

Why it matters

The addition of Hobby Airport to the 500 Downtown Direct route provides more transportation options for travelers, improving connectivity between downtown Houston and the city's two international airports. This could help reduce traffic congestion and make it more convenient for passengers to access the airports.

The details

The expanded 500 Downtown Direct route will include new northbound stops at St Joseph Parkway at Main, Travis at Dallas, and San Jacinto at Rusk. The southbound stops will be added at Fannin at Rusk, Milam at Dallas, and Pierce at Main. Ticket prices for the route will remain $4.50.

  • The 500 Downtown Direct route first launched in April 2025.
  • The expanded route with Hobby Airport service will go into effect on Sunday.

The players

Metro

The regional transit authority serving the Houston metropolitan area.

Jim Szczesniak

Houston Airports director of aviation.

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What they’re saying

“For many passengers, the journey starts long before the ticket counter. Extending the 500 Downtown Direct offers a reliable, affordable connection between downtown and HOU. It reduces stress, improves access and ensures every visitor is greeted with Houston-friendly hospitality in an organized, world-class environment that reflects who we are as a global gateway.”

— Jim Szczesniak, Houston Airports director of aviation (Houston Chronicle)

What’s next

The expanded 500 Downtown Direct route with the new Hobby Airport service will go into effect this Sunday.

The takeaway

The addition of Hobby Airport to Metro's 500 Downtown Direct bus route improves transportation connectivity between downtown Houston and the city's two major airports, providing more travel options for passengers and potentially reducing traffic congestion.