B Okon Ekpenyong

Houston Mayor John Whitmire has appointed Angel Ponce as the new member of the Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County (METRO) Board of Directors, with Ponce taking his oath on November 6, 2024, after the Houston City Council unanimously confirmed his appointment. 

As Director of the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities, Ponce brings over 15 years of experience advocating for individuals with disabilities and underrepresented groups. His personal experience as a wheelchair user since 2004 gives him a deep understanding of the challenges faced by people with disabilities in Houston.

The METRO has greatly been beneficial to the Houston’s refugee and immigrant community. It provides affordable transportation, connects them to employment, education, healthcare, and community resources, and fosters integration, social mobility, and economic growth.

Angel Ponce shares his personal story of overcoming disability and finding independence through METRO’s services. “When I became disabled in 2004, I thought the world wasn’t made for people like me,” Ponce recalls.

“But METROLift helped me regain my independence, taking me to college classes, my first job, and even internships at City Hall.” 

Key Highlights of Angel Ponce’s Background

– Advocacy Experience: Over 15 years of advocating for individuals with disabilities and underrepresented groups

– Personal Experience: Angel Ponce has been a wheelchair user since 2004, providing him with a unique and firsthand understanding of the challenges faced by people with disabilities.

– Leadership Roles: Angel Ponce has served as the director of the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities and is a co-founder of the National Coalition for Latinxs with Disabilities, demonstrating his extensive leadership experience and commitment to the disability community.

– Education: Angel Ponce holds a Bachelor’s degree in leadership and management from the University of Houston, which has equipped him with the necessary skills and knowledge to serve on the METRO Board.

Mayor John Whitmire praised Ponce’s nomination, saying, “Angel’s leadership is a win-win for Houston, METRO, and the disability community.” METRO Chairman Elizabeth Gonzalez Brock hailed Ponce as a champion for accessibility. 

“I’m honored to serve my fellow Houstonians and contribute to delivering safe, clean, viable, and accessible transportation for all,” Ponce said.

Ponce’s role on the METRO Board is crucial in ensuring comprehensive access for all citizens, leading initiatives like pedestrian access and review programs, advocating for disability rights, and serving as a liaison between city departments and public entities.

The history of the Houston Metropolitan Transit Authority (METRO) spans more than four decades. Established in 1979, METRO has achieved several significant milestones, including expanding comprehensive transportation services such as buses, light rail, and paratransit. The organization is committed to ongoing advancements in accessibility and sustainability. To date, METRO has 1,233 buses and 76 light trails. 

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