Dallas, Texas, February 10, 2026
Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) faces significant challenges as multiple member cities, including Farmers Branch and Irving, prepare for elections on potential withdrawal. Set for May 2, these votes could lead to drastic changes in transit services, impacting bus and rail routes. DART is currently engaged in negotiations with city leaders to address concerns over governance and funding to prevent withdrawals. The situation emphasizes the importance of effective public transportation in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
Dallas, Texas – DART’s Future Hinges on Upcoming City Votes
What cities are considering withdrawal from DART?
As of February 10, 2026, the cities of Farmers Branch, Highland Park, Irving, Plano, University Park, and Addison have scheduled elections to decide on their continued membership with DART.
When are the withdrawal elections scheduled?
The withdrawal elections are set for May 2, 2026.
What are the potential consequences if these cities withdraw from DART?
If these cities proceed with withdrawal, DART has outlined several anticipated service changes, including the discontinuation of bus and rail services within the withdrawing cities, potential closures or modifications of stations, and the end of on-demand and paratransit services in those areas.
What is DART doing to address these potential withdrawals?
DART and city leaders are engaged in negotiations to address concerns over governance, funding, and service levels. Discussions include potential governance reforms, funding adjustments, and service enhancements to retain member cities.
What is the deadline for cities to rescind their withdrawal elections?
Cities have until mid-March to rescind their withdrawal elections. The exact date varies by city, but the latest possible date is March 18, 2026.
Key Features of the Situation
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Member Cities Considering Withdrawal | Farmers Branch, Highland Park, Irving, Plano, University Park, and Addison have scheduled elections to decide on their continued membership with DART. |
| Scheduled Election Date | May 2, 2026. |
| Potential Service Changes | Discontinuation of bus and rail services within withdrawing cities, potential closures or modifications of stations, and the end of on-demand and paratransit services in those areas. |
| Negotiation Efforts | DART and city leaders are engaged in negotiations to address concerns over governance, funding, and service levels, including potential governance reforms, funding adjustments, and service enhancements to retain member cities. |
| Deadline to Rescind Withdrawal Elections | Mid-March 2026, with the latest possible date being March 18, 2026. |
Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) faces a critical juncture as several member cities prepare to vote on potential withdrawal from the transit agency. These decisions, set for May 2, 2026, could significantly reshape public transportation in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
Key Cities Scheduling Withdrawal Votes
As of February 10, 2026, the following cities have scheduled elections to decide on their continued membership with DART:
- Farmers Branch
- Highland Park
- Irving
- Plano
- University Park
- Addison
These cities collectively contribute a significant portion of DART’s funding through a one-cent sales tax. Their potential withdrawal raises concerns about the agency’s financial stability and the future of regional transit services.
Implications of Potential Withdrawals
If these cities proceed with withdrawal, DART has outlined several anticipated service changes:
- Rail Services: Stations in withdrawing cities, such as Downtown Plano, Farmers Branch, and Irving Convention Center, may close or modify operations. Rail lines passing through these areas could continue without stopping at certain stations.
- Bus Services: Routes operating within withdrawing cities would be discontinued. Routes connecting through or serving these cities might be shortened, rerouted, or eliminated.
- On-Demand Services: GoLink services in affected areas could end, impacting zones like East Plano, Far North Plano, and Farmers Branch.
- Paratransit Services: ADA paratransit services would cease in any city that withdraws, affecting trips beginning or ending in those areas.
These changes could disrupt daily commutes and access to essential services for residents in the affected cities.
Negotiations and Potential Compromises
In response to the proposed withdrawals, DART and city leaders are engaged in negotiations to address concerns over governance, funding, and service levels. Key developments include:
- Governance Reforms: Discussions are underway to adjust the DART board’s composition to ensure fair representation among member cities. Proposals include a “one city, one vote” model to prevent any single city from holding disproportionate influence.
- Funding Adjustments: DART is evaluating potential sales tax reductions to provide financial relief to cities, aiming to make continued membership more appealing.
- Service Enhancements: Efforts are being made to improve service quality and address specific needs of member cities to retain their participation in the transit system.
These negotiations are crucial, as cities have until mid-March to rescind their withdrawal elections. The outcome will determine the future structure and effectiveness of public transportation in the region.
Background on DART and Member City Dynamics
DART, established in 1983, serves as the primary public transportation provider in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Member cities contribute to the agency’s funding through a one-cent sales tax. Over the years, some cities have expressed concerns about the value they receive in return for their contributions, leading to discussions about withdrawal and the need for reforms within the agency.
The current situation underscores the delicate balance between maintaining a cohesive regional transit system and addressing the specific needs and concerns of individual member cities.
Conclusion
The upcoming elections represent a pivotal moment for DART and the cities involved. As negotiations continue, stakeholders will be watching closely to see how the issue of governance, funding, and service quality is addressed. With the spirit of entrepreneurship and community engagement at the forefront, it is essential for residents and local business leaders to remain informed and active in discussions about the future of public transportation in our region. Supporting local initiatives and advocating for productive reforms can ultimately foster a robust Dallas County economy.
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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.
