Mass Transit

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Houston METRO: 713-635-4000; http://www.ridemetro.org/

The Metro Authority operates the only cheap mass-transit in Houston, consisting of an extensive bus system and a more limited (but slowly expanding) light rail line. Fortunately for Rice Students, the University has a stop on the Red Line, which runs from Reliant Stadium (near 610 South) to the University of Houston's Downtown campus.

Rice offers graduate students a heavily subsidized Metro Q Card loaded with $255 of fares for $55. Since students get 50 cent rides on Metro using a Q Card, this means 510 normal rides for $55. The card does not expire and additional value can be added easily at any MetroRail stop and at Metro stores. For less frequent riders, it is better to pay $1 per ride, including transfers.

For more information on maps, schedules, and fares, go to Metro's website.  Many route maps are available at the Student Center Information Desk and outside the Cashier’s Office in the Allen Center.

Also, you can take advantage of the Rice and TMC shuttle systems for traveling in the Rice/TMC area.