Dallas, Texas, January 27, 2026
As member cities approach a critical decision deadline regarding their future with Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART), Addison, Plano, Irving, and Farmers Branch are considering withdrawal. Key issues driving this movement include dissatisfaction with DART’s governance, spending, and safety measures. In response, DART is negotiating with these cities and forming a working group to discuss potential reforms. The potential exit of these municipalities could threaten DART’s financial stability and ridership, leading cities to explore alternative transit solutions.
What is DART?
DART stands for Dallas Area Rapid Transit, a public transportation agency serving the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
Which cities are considering leaving DART?
Several member cities, including Addison, Plano, Irving, and Farmers Branch, are considering withdrawal from DART.
Why are these cities considering leaving DART?
Member cities have expressed concerns over DART’s spending practices, governance structure, and safety measures, leading to considerations of withdrawal.
What is DART doing in response to these concerns?
DART has engaged in negotiations with member cities to address these issues, including convening a working group to discuss potential reforms.
What are the potential consequences of cities leaving DART?
A reduction in membership could lead to decreased ridership and financial instability for DART, while cities considering withdrawal are evaluating alternative transit solutions.
Dallas, Texas
Negotiations Intensify as Multiple Cities Consider Exiting DART
As the deadline approaches for Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) member cities to decide on their future with the agency, several municipalities are actively considering withdrawal. Key discussions are underway to address concerns over governance, funding, and service delivery.
Potential Withdrawals and Upcoming Elections
Five of DART’s 13 member cities have until late February to remove from their May 2 ballots the question of remaining in DART or dissolving the system within their city limits. Addison is poised to become the sixth city to schedule a withdrawal election, with the City Council set to vote on the measure for a second time. Previously, cities such as Plano, Irving, and Farmers Branch have scheduled similar elections, reflecting a growing trend of dissatisfaction among suburban municipalities.
Underlying Concerns and Negotiations
Member cities have expressed frustration with DART’s spending practices, governance structure, and safety measures. In response, DART has engaged in negotiations to address these issues. A working group comprising mayors, city managers, and DART leadership has been convened to discuss potential reforms. Upcoming meetings are scheduled to review governance and funding options, with a focus on creating a more equitable and efficient transit system.
Implications for DART and the Region
The potential exodus of member cities poses significant challenges for DART, which relies on contributions from these municipalities to fund its operations. A reduction in membership could lead to decreased ridership and financial instability. Conversely, cities considering withdrawal are evaluating the feasibility of alternative transit solutions and the long-term benefits of remaining with DART.
Background Context
DART, established to provide public transportation across the Dallas-Fort Worth area, has faced scrutiny over its governance model, funding allocation, and service effectiveness. The agency’s debt, currently in the billions, is shared among member cities, creating a complex financial landscape. As cities weigh the pros and cons of continued membership, the future of DART remains uncertain, with ongoing negotiations aiming to address the concerns of all stakeholders involved.
Key Features of the Situation
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Member Cities Considering Withdrawal | Addison, Plano, Irving, Farmers Branch, and potentially others |
| Scheduled Withdrawal Elections | May 2, 2026 |
| Primary Concerns | Governance, funding, and service delivery |
| DART’s Response | Negotiations and working group discussions |
| Potential Implications | Financial instability and decreased ridership for DART; cities exploring alternative transit solutions |
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Author: STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER
The DALLAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDallas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Dallas, Dallas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the State Fair of Texas, Deep Ellum Arts Festival, and Dallas International Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Dallas Regional Chamber and United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, aviation, and semiconductors that power the local economy such as AT&T, Southwest Airlines, and Texas Instruments. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
