Park & Ride - Harlingen Convention Center

As of January 21, 2025, the Harlingen Park & Ride was relocated to the Harlingen Convention Center - Green Jay Pavilion.

How did this change impact UTRGV’s Park & Ride services in Harlingen?

The Harlingen Soccer Complex is no longer used as the site for the Harlingen Park & Ride.
The Harlingen Convention Center, located at 701 Harlingen Heights Drive, is the new park & ride location.
Vaquero Express routes traveling to Edinburg or Brownsville depart from the Harlingen Convention Center.
The Harlingen Circulator connects the Convention Center to HCEBL with about a 30-minute frequency.
Valley Metro’s RGV Metro Express-Orangeline route also departs from the Convention Center.

Harlingen Convention Center parking

Key Benefits of New + Improved Park & Ride Location:

Covered shelter
Well-lit parking and waiting areas
Outdoor seating
Electrical outlets for charging devices
Access to public restrooms
Access to public wi-fi
ADA accessible

Links to Route Schedules (Fall 2026)

Transloc App

Real-time bus tracking is available through the Transloc app. (iOS & Android) For any assistance or updates contact our information line at (956) 665-2036.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Move to the Harlingen Convention Center

How much will this cost me?

Nothing. There will be no permit or fee required to park at the Harlingen Convention Center. There is no cost for riding Vaquero Express or the Harlingen Circulator.

Will this affect my schedule?

The change does not affect the timetable for Vaquero Express.

What if it rains? What if the sun is too hot?

The waiting area is covered and protected from the sun and rain.

What if it gets cold?

We’ve purchased portable heating units and will place them in waiting areas if needed.

What if I need ADA access?

The waiting area is ADA-accessible.

Will buses be late?

The new location benefits from speedy access to the expressway which we expect to improve on-time performance. However, sometimes—due to accidents or bad weather—travel on the expressway will be slower.

Are you getting more buses?

Yes, we’ve added 56-passenger buses to the schedule.

What about lighting?

Both the parking and waiting areas are well-lit.

What about safety and security?

The Convention Center is a modern facility in a well-developed part of Harlingen. It is well-lit and close to commercial areas. Convention Center staff will be present on-site during the park & ride’s operating hours (6 AM – 12 AM). In addition, UTRGV PD will make periodic visits during the operating day. Lastly, a member of the Parking and Transportation team will always be present at the location.

What if I need to use the restroom?

Passengers may use the Convention Center’s indoor restrooms located across from the door that accesses the Green Jay Pavilion.

What about seating?

Ample seating in the form of benches is available at the location.

What about mosquitos?

We install portable mosquito repelling devices at the location when needed.

What about WiFi?

The location features public WiFi access.

Can I charge my devices there?

Yes, there are several outlets located in the waiting area.

What if I get hungry?

The Convention Center is located next to a Hilton Garden Inn which has a sundries section near the entrance. You can find drinks and snacks there, as well as personal care items.

What about water?

The Convention Center has drinking fountains. On very hot days, we may also offer bottled water for riders.

What if I still want to go to HCEBL?

The Harlingen Circulator will connect the Convention Center to HCEBL.

What about the future?

We will continue to use the Harlingen Convention Center as the Harlingen Park & Ride location until further notice.

For more information, view the FAQs on our Harlingen Campus parking updates page. We are confident this move will enhance your park and ride experience.

For additional questions or concerns, please reach out to eventparking@utrgv.edu. As always, thank you for your patience and cooperation.