North Texas, January 17, 2026
Cities in North Texas, including Plano, Irving, Farmers Branch, Highland Park, and University Park, are preparing for a critical election on May 2, 2026, that will determine their potential withdrawal from the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) system. Residents voice concerns over financial disparities and inadequate services, prompting discussions on alternative transportation options. The outcome of this vote could significantly impact public transportation and regional connectivity, as city leaders seek to address the needs of their communities more effectively.
Which cities are considering withdrawing from DART?
Plano, Irving, Farmers Branch, Highland Park, and University Park are each holding elections on May 2, 2026, to decide on withdrawing from DART.
What would happen if a city votes to leave DART?
If a city votes to withdraw, DART would immediately cease all services within that city, including bus routes, light rail stations, and on-demand services like GoLink.
Why are these cities considering leaving DART?
The cities are concerned about financial disparities, with residents contributing more in taxes than the services they receive from DART. Additionally, there are issues regarding service adequacy and responsiveness to local needs.
What alternatives are being considered?
Some cities, like Plano, are exploring microtransit solutions to provide flexible and responsive transportation options tailored to their communities.
How might this affect the regional transit system?
The withdrawal of multiple cities could lead to a fragmented transit system, reducing connectivity and potentially impacting the overall efficiency and reach of public transportation in North Texas.
North Texas Cities Face Deadline to Decide on DART Withdrawal Amid Service Concerns
Making Choices for Better Transit
Plano, Irving, Farmers Branch, Highland Park, and University Park are on the cusp of making a monumental decision regarding their relationship with the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) system. As the deadline for local elections on May 2, 2026, approaches, city leaders are compelled to weigh the myriad implications of a potential withdrawal from DART—a choice that could reshape public transportation in the region.
These localities are fueled by a strong spirit of community engagement, where residents and small business owners alike are eager to voice their needs and concerns regarding public transit services. The discussions surrounding DART highlight the entrepreneurial spirit in North Texas, where businesses thrive on accessibility and mobility, underscoring how reduced red tape and more responsive local governance could promote overall economic growth.
Immediate Service Implications
If any of the participating cities decide to withdraw from DART, the agency has stated that all services within those municipalities will cease immediately. This dramatic exit would entail shutting down bus routes, light rail stations, and on-demand services, such as GoLink, which are vital for many residents relying on public transportation for daily commutes and access to essential services.
Underlying Concerns and Financial Disparities
The potential withdrawals are rooted in rising dissatisfaction over inadequate service levels and fiscal imbalances. In 2023, for instance, the city of Plano alone contributed a staggering $109 million to DART, but only $44 million was allocated for services in the city. Such financial discrepancies have fueled discontent among city leaders and constituents, prompting them to reconsider the effectiveness of their partnership with DART.
Potential Alternatives and Future Planning
Aware of the upcoming potential disruption, cities are not simply waiting until May 2026 to make plans. For instance, Plano has proactively allocated $4 million to develop a six-month contract with a transportation vendor focused on providing microtransit services specifically tailored to the community’s needs. These alternatives aim to ensure that essential transportation options remain available regardless of the outcome of the local elections.
Regional Impact and Ongoing Negotiations
The implications of a collective withdrawal could extend beyond just individual cities, raising broad questions about the future of regional transit connectivity. DART officials have expressed apprehension that such decisions could lead to disjointed services and reduced overall connectivity. In response, ongoing negotiations among DART officials and city leaders aim to address governance and funding structures that align better with the expectations of local stakeholders.
Background Context
This deliberation over DART membership is not a new occurrence. Cities such as Plano and Irving have long voiced frustrations about both service adequacy and financial equity. The May elections stand as a crucial juncture in determining North Texas’s public transportation landscape, with consequential effects on residents, local businesses, and the broader regional economy.
Key Features of the Situation
| City | Election Date | Potential Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Plano | May 2, 2026 | Potential withdrawal from DART, leading to cessation of services within the city. |
| Irving | May 2, 2026 | Potential withdrawal from DART, leading to cessation of services within the city. |
| Farmers Branch | May 2, 2026 | Potential withdrawal from DART, leading to cessation of services within the city. |
| Highland Park | May 2, 2026 | Potential withdrawal from DART, leading to cessation of services within the city. |
| University Park | May 2, 2026 | Potential withdrawal from DART, leading to cessation of services within the city. |
As we approach the May elections, it is crucial for residents and business owners to stay informed and engaged with local decisions that could shape the future of transportation in North Texas. Whether through supporting alternative transit solutions or advocating for improved services, the community’s involvement will play a pivotal role in the trajectory of Dallas’s public transportation landscape.
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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.
