The Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) is actively seeking community input through public hearings this summer on proposed service and fare changes that will likely have broad implications for residents across its 13-member cities. These changes are vital for DART in their mission to balance financial sustainability and equitable service, under the banner that "Your Voice Matters."
According to the City of Carrollton's official announcement, a public hearing in Carrollton is scheduled for June 23 at the Carrollton Senior Center. It is part of a larger effort by DART to reallocate funds through the new General Mobility Program (GMP), which aims to correct disparities in service value by shifting approximately $42.59 million of its annual sales tax collections to seven cities that were underserved in FY 2023, which include Addison and Carrollton among others.
Amid budget constraints and increased operational costs, DART is considering what could be the largest systemwide reduction of services in its history. Detailed changes might involve the discontinuation of nine bus routes, along with the axing of a GoLink zone and three zone-to-zone pilot programs. Jeamy Molina, DART's Executive Vice President and Chief Communications Officer, asserted, "We understand these changes affect people's lives." She further emphasized their commitment to community engagement before finalizing any decisions, per the City of Carrollton.
Amidst this restructuring, DART is also introducing Phase 2 of fare reform, which is separate from the GMP effects. This phase will bring about modifications to various fare structures, including paratransit and regional fares, and introduce a distance-based pricing model for the GoLink service. Under the weight of these proposed adjustments, residents and stakeholders are encouraged to convey their feedback during both community sessions and the formal Public Hearing process scheduled for July 8. Molina told the City of Carrollton the importance of public participation and that "That's why we’re committed to listening to our community before any final decisions are made."
