Township approves federally funded purchase of 25 commuter buses, $24.3 million

The Woodlands Township on Nov. 19 authorized staff to execute a manufacturing contract for 25 new commuter buses to modernize the Willis Express fleet.

Ruth Ann Haught, director of transportation and infrastructure, told the board staff ran a competitive request for proposals and received a single responsive bid from Motor Coaches Industries (MCI), the only U.S. manufacturer able to meet federal Buy American requirements for this vehicle type. The total cost of the procurement is $24,300,000; the project budget is $25,000,000 and staff said the purchase will be 100% federally funded through the Houston-Galveston Area Council (HGAC), meaning no local township funds are required.

Haught described passenger-focused upgrades: footrests, adjustable vents, device outlets, improved infotainment/stop-announcement systems, bike storage undercarriage bays, flushing toilets in the rear of the coach appropriate for long commutes, and air-conditioning systems designed to offer roughly 50% more cooling. Staff anticipates about two months for contract execution and an accelerated manufacturing timeline with delivery by September 2026.

The board moved and approved the contract authorization; members asked about potential efficiencies such as locating maintenance closer to The Woodlands to reduce deadhead miles, and staff said they are pursuing options and federal approval for a proposed maintenance facility.

Follow-up: Staff will return with contract documents approved as to form by legal counsel, and will later present a disposal/retention plan for the replaced fleet and potential maintenance facility proposals.