Pearland is expected to become even more densely populated by 2040, and with that growth comes significant transportation challenges. According to a transit needs study conducted by the Houston-Galveston Area Council of Governments (HGAC), the city may need alternatives beyond just cars to address mobility concerns.
Exploring Public Transit Solutions for Pearland
HGAC Project Manager Alan Rodenstein recently presented the findings of the study to city officials, outlining potential solutions. “We wanted to see what kinds of service we could recommend,” Rodenstein stated. “These are just recommendations for your consideration.”
The study highlights that many Pearland residents commute to the Texas Medical Center and downtown Houston. To ease transportation issues, the report suggests an on-demand transit service within the city, with costs shared among the city, transit grants, and riders.
Commuter Service Recommendations
One key recommendation is a commuter transit service from West Pearland to a major employment hub, such as the Texas Medical Center. This service could be operated by a private or public partner, with an estimated annual cost of $76,000 for the city.
However, some city officials expressed skepticism. Councilman Rushi Patel recalled a failed 2019 park-and-ride service from Pearland to the Texas Medical Center and Downtown Houston. “They just couldn’t get enough ridership,” Patel said. “Everybody wants to go when they want to go. That’s the challenge.”
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Commuter Services
Rodenstein pointed out that the COVID-19 pandemic further disrupted transit services. “COVID was devastating to commuter service throughout this region, throughout the country,” he noted. Many existing transit systems struggled with declining ridership during the pandemic, making it harder to sustain such services.
Public Opinion on Transit in Pearland
A survey of 2,300 Pearland residents found that 56% support public transit, while 44% do not. Notably, 75% of residents favor transit services specifically for seniors and individuals with disabilities.
Currently, the Gulf Coast Transit District provides a service known as Harris County Rides through an interlocal agreement, offering transportation for seniors and those with disabilities. However, Rodenstein acknowledged that costs can be a burden for residents with limited incomes.
Concerns Over Funding and Priorities
While the council plans to discuss the issue further later in the year, funding remains a major concern. Mayor Kevin Cole highlighted the financial challenges of implementing new transit services. “The hard lift for us is when we drive out of here and hit a pothole — we’re struggling to get some of our streets fixed,” he said. “I can’t see us spending $3 million for a (transit) program to make that happen.”
As Pearland’s population continues to grow, addressing transportation issues will become increasingly important. While the HGAC study provides potential transit solutions, past failures and financial concerns remain obstacles. City officials must balance the need for improved mobility with the realities of funding and infrastructure priorities. A more detailed discussion is expected in the future, as Pearland considers the best path forward for its residents.
