Three North Texas Cities Consider Voter Withdrawal from DART Over Funding Disparities

Three North Texas cities—Plano, Highland Park, and Farmers Branch—are considering whether to withdraw from the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) system due to concerns about the disparity between their financial contributions and the transit services they receive. An independent study by Ernst & Young revealed that in 2023, Plano contributed $109 million to DART but received only $44 million in services, while Farmers Branch contributed $24.3 million and received $20.8 million in return. Plano City Council has scheduled a special session to decide on calling a special election in 2026 to let voters decide if the city should remain with DART or pursue alternative transit solutions, including a planned Microtransit service tailored to local needs. City leaders cite evolving community needs and the desire for more flexible, responsive transit options, while also raising concerns about DART’s management, including executive bonuses and increasing crime on the transit system. DART maintains that all funds are necessary for operations and reaffirmed its commitment to Plano riders. The outcome of these deliberations could significantly reshape regional transit and mobility governance in the Dallas area.