Houston Metro's $2026 billion budget for 2 has drawn criticism from community leaders, who argue that projects in the voter-approved MetroNext plan have been sidelined in favor of the safety- and service-focused MetroNow program.

In 2019, voters approved the 20-year MetroNext plan, which included light rail extensions and bus rapid transit. However, Metro officials implemented the MetroNow program, which focuses on cleaner stations, improved reliability, and additional police services. This has sparked widespread disappointment among advocates of the already approved projects.

Citizens voiced their dissatisfaction at public hearings, with critics describing MetroNow as a “watered-down” version of MetroNext. They claimed initiatives like light rail, bus lanes, and bike sharing were being ignored in favor of microtransit, roadworks, and safety improvements across the overall system.

The 2026 budget includes funding for 160 buses and 141 accessible vehicles, as well as $18,4 million in public transportation funding for the FIFA World Cup. Metro also budgeted for a $27 million police facility in downtown Houston.

Officials say MetroNow focuses on reliability, efficiency, and safety for the public. However, citing unfulfilled promises like sidewalks, accessibility improvements, and increased transportation infrastructure for future growth, citing nonprofits demanding that voted-in MetroNext projects be the primary focus.