Jan. 25, 2008, 10:36AM

Metro is expanding its commuter service in Katy with the addition of the 222 Grand Parkway Park & Ride.

Starting Monday, Jan. 28 service will begin from the Metro-designated parking area at the Cinemark Theatre lot, located just north of I-10 West/Katy Freeway at 1030 W. Grand Parkway North.

The 222 Grand Parkway Park & Ride will provide direct service between the Grand Parkway and downtown Houston. Buses will depart every 15 minutes between 5:30 a.m. and 8:15 a.m. and return every 15 minutes between 3:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.

The bus fare is $3.50 each way. Customers can also get Metro’s new Q Card, which allows them to pay the bus fare by touching the card over a scan machine at the bus stop. Customers also get free transfers and five free trips with every 50 paid trips.

Metro customers can park for free when using their Q Card. Non-Metro riders are required to pay $3.50 for parking.

During opening week, Metro’s Explorer Bus will be at the new Katy Park & Ride to help patrons get their Q Cards.

For a schedule or more information, call 713-635-4000 or visit www.ridemetro.org.