Following public opposition, DART considers potential alterations to prevent significant service reductions
In response to public backlash, Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) has announced revised service changes that aim to minimize disruptions and maintain many current services. The updated proposals, presented at a board meeting, include the following:
- No changes to the paratransit service area and Trinity Railway Express frequency will remain at 30-minute peak and 60-minute off-peak intervals.
- No discontinuation of GoLink Zones or zone-to-zone pilots will be implemented.
- Most bus routes will keep current midday weekday and weekend service levels. However, Routes 209, 225, 2554, and 255 are proposed for discontinuation.
- Peak morning service frequency for light rail, local bus, and express routes will change from every 15 minutes to every 20 minutes.
- Routes 28, 41, and 47 will change from 20-minute to 30-minute frequency during midday.
- Introduction of city-wide GoLink service in Plano and new circulator shuttles in Plano and Addison.
These measures reflect a scaled-back approach after public outcry against earlier, more drastic cuts. The plan is still subject to Title VI review to assess impacts on underserved or low-income communities, with potential route restorations if future funding allows.
Hundreds of DART riders and advocates spoke out against proposed cuts during a public hearing on July 8, according to The Dallas Morning News. The changes, if approved, are set to go into effect in January.
The revised plans come after DART made system-wide cuts to direct 5% of its annual sales tax revenue into a new General Mobility Program (GMP). Eligible cities, including Plano, Carrollton, and Richardson, can use GMP funds for non-DART transit projects. The GMP was created following debates between DART and member cities, including a legislative battle in Austin over a proposed bill that could have cut a quarter of the agency's funding from cities.
Rob Smith, vice president of service and planning at DART, made these announcements at the board meeting. The upcoming Silver Line commuter rail will maintain a 30-minute peak frequency, with the opening anticipated soon. Service adjustments to accommodate Buckner Station construction are also underway but are temporary and localized.
Read also:
- Catastrophe at a U.S. Steel facility in Pennsylvania results in the loss of two lives. crucial details unveiled
- Auto Industry Updates: Geotab, C2A, Deloitte, NOVOSENSE, Soracom, and Panasonic in Focus
- Chemical company, Chemours, instructed to promptly reduce PFAS discharge into the Ohio River
- Money-Transmitter Enterprises and the Threat of Money Laundering
