McAllen City

The McAllen City Commission has authorized a new "Ground Transportation Permit" fee for ride-share services at McAllen International Airport, establishing a dedicated revenue stream for the facility’s upcoming $176 million terminal expansion. To mitigate immediate costs for passengers, the commission approved a phased-in approach: a $1.00 fee per trip effective immediately, increasing to $2.00 in 90 days, and reaching a final $3.00 cap in six months effectively increasing by $1.00 every 90 days. While the majority of the commission supported the measure as a critical "local match" for federal infrastructure grants, the vote was not unanimous. Commissioner Joaquin "J.J." Zamora cast the sole vote against the permit, arguing that the fee places a disproportionate financial burden on those using rideshare services without providing improved staging or waiting facilities for drivers.