News Summary
North Texas is advancing toward a sustainable transportation system centered on cycling and walking, primarily through the DFW Discovery Trail connecting Dallas and Fort Worth. Set to be completed by 2026, the trail will span approximately 63 miles, improving connectivity among five major cities. With nearly 10 miles left to construct, the trail will enhance accessibility, safety, and air quality, promoting healthier commuting options. Funding of $74 million will support this ambitious project, aiming to transform transportation perceptions in the region.
North Texas Unveils Plans for DFW Discovery Trail by 2026
North Texas is making significant strides towards a more sustainable transportation system that prioritizes cycling and walking over car use. The centerpiece of this initiative is the DFW Discovery Trail, a comprehensive regional path that will connect Fort Worth and Dallas, anticipated to be largely completed by 2026. Once finished, the trail will stretch approximately 63 miles, facilitating a healthier and more environmentally friendly commuting option in the rapidly urbanizing area.
As of now, nearly 10 miles of the trail remain to be constructed. Most sections yet to be completed are below 2 miles in length, except for a crucial 4.5-mile segment that will link the Trinity Trails and River Legacy Trail in Arlington. This project, which has been in development for almost a decade, promises to significantly enhance connectivity among five major cities in the region: Dallas, Fort Worth, Arlington, Grand Prairie, and Irving.
Overview of Remaining Segments
The remaining segments that need to be completed include:
- Trinity Lakes Trail in Fort Worth – 4.5 miles, currently under construction and expected to finish by late 2025.
- CentrePort Station Trail in Fort Worth – 1.63 miles, with construction starting in 2026 and completion projected for early 2027.
- Rock Island Trail in Grand Prairie – 1.6 miles, with no specific construction timeline.
- Trinity Boulevard/Roy Orr Trail in Grand Prairie – 1.81 miles, set to start construction in December, expected completion by early 2028.
- Rock Island Trail in Irving – 1.07 miles, with no timeline for construction.
- Stenter Road pedestrian crossing in Irving – also without a specific construction timeline.
- Interstate 35E underpass in Dallas – construction anticipated to begin and complete in 2027.
Funding and Support for the Initiative
To fund this ambitious project, the Regional Transportation Council has allocated $59.6 million in federal grants specifically for 12 active transportation projects in the area. This investment is further supported by $14.4 million in local funding, bringing the total expected investment through the 2025 Transportation Alternatives Set-Aside Program to approximately $74 million. These funds will not only aid in the construction of the DFW Discovery Trail but will also improve bike and pedestrian infrastructure across the region, targeting enhanced connectivity with transit services and major employment centers.
Benefits of the Trail
Among the many anticipated benefits of this trail project are improved safety for pedestrians and cyclists, reduced traffic congestion in urban areas, and better air quality. The initiatives also look to attract more individuals to walk or bike, providing them with safer, more enjoyable routes. Recent trail expansions have already increased the popularity of the Trinity Trails, with locals expressing satisfaction over the newly created opportunities for exploration and outdoor activities.
Local Developments in Tarrant County
Several projects have been initiated in Tarrant County that align with the goals of the DFW Discovery Trail. These include new paths and traffic signal improvements in Fort Worth, a shared-use path in Crowley connecting to Bicentennial Park, as well as sidewalk and intersection enhancements near Cheney Hills Elementary in Richland Hills. These efforts aim to facilitate better access for cyclists and pedestrians, further contributing to the larger vision of interconnected transport options within North Texas.
Community Perspectives
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Star-Telegram: Fort Worth News
- Wikipedia: Bicycle Infrastructure
- Dallas Innovates: RTC Funding
- Google Search: North Texas bicycle projects
- Community Impact: Cotton Belt Trail
- Google Scholar: Dallas Bicycle Infrastructure
- Denton Record-Chronicle: Federal Funds for Trails
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Bicycle Infrastructure
- Dallas News: Megabus Ends Routes
- Google News: North Texas Transportation Projects
