Dallas Suburbs Consider Withdrawal from DART Amid Concerns

The future of the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) system hangs in the balance as several suburbs contemplate withdrawing from the regional transit agency. The Highland Park Town Council voted unanimously on March 5, 2024, to place a measure on the ballot that will allow voters to decide whether to maintain their affiliation with DART. Other cities, including Farmers Branch and Plano, are also evaluating similar actions, raising concerns about the long-term viability of the transit system.

DART, which serves 13 member cities, relies on a 1-cent sales tax from each municipality to fund its operations. Should cities choose to withdraw, they would cease receiving DART services, including bus and train operations. However, it is important to note that withdrawing cities would still be obligated to pay their full sales tax contribution for an estimated ten years, according to DART spokesperson Jeamy Molina. This means that even if they exit the system, the financial responsibilities would remain, complicating the decision for many local governments.

In Highland Park, the recent vote reflects a growing impatience among residents regarding the perceived return on investment from DART. The council’s decision to call for an election highlights a broader sentiment among suburban communities, where dissatisfaction with transit services has been mounting. Farmers Branch was expected to discuss a similar proposal on the same day, while Plano and Irving are set to consider their options in the coming days. Each of these cities is grappling with the implications of potentially dismantling a transit system that has been decades in the making.

Impact of Potential Withdrawals

If a city successfully withdraws from DART, the consequences could be immediate and severe. Nadine Lee, DART’s CEO, indicated that all buses and GoLink services would cease, and trains would no longer stop at the city’s light rail stations. For example, in Plano, which has end-of-line rail stations, the trains would simply stop service to the area, leaving residents without options for public transportation. In Irving, while the trains might still run to DFW International Airport, they would not stop at any local stations.

The ramifications of such withdrawals extend beyond mere inconvenience. As North Texas prepares to host the upcoming World Cup, the city’s ability to provide reliable public transportation will be under scrutiny. A fractured transit system could undermine the region’s reputation, especially as visitors arrive expecting efficient and accessible transport options.

Moreover, the potential for economic development along DART’s rail lines could be jeopardized. Many cities invested in light rail with the anticipation of growth and investment along these routes. The recent focus on bus service over rail development has been criticized as a strategic error by DART leadership, which may have contributed to the current discontent among member cities.

While there are valid concerns regarding DART’s performance—such as crime, long travel times, and declining ridership—abandoning the system could have long-lasting negative effects. Experts argue that dismantling or defunding the transit system may yield short-term financial relief but could lead to greater challenges in the future.

The ongoing discussions in these suburbs underscore the critical need for a cohesive approach to public transportation in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Without regional support and collaboration, the future of DART remains uncertain, potentially diminishing the mobility options for countless residents who rely on the system.