The DART transportation system that connects a number of municipalities in the metroplex to Dallas is having some money troubles following months of talk about cities reducing their contributions to the entity.
As previously reported by The Dallas Express, officials in numerous jurisdictions within the DART system have been wanting to reduce taxpayer spending on the light rail transit network. In June, DART announced that fare prices will be raised in 2025 for the first time in six years to help maintain and improve service and battle higher costs, a seeming hedge against the possible cuts to come.
In Dallas, DART trains and stations have been notorious for rampant, open drug use and criminal activity, as reported by DX.
Here’s some of what KERA News recently published on how DART’s board plans to move forward:
Leaders at Dallas Area Rapid Transit voted Wednesday to compromise on a new draft budget that reduces spending in some areas.
The vote came after discussions over potential cuts including bus routes, light rail expansion and security resources. Most committee members were opposed to cutting services, but some saw the benefit of reducing the agency’s operating budget at a time when several DART member cities want to reduce their contributions.
“We have to acknowledge that six of our member cities have, not just discussed, they have voted and by a majority and in some cases a very large majority issued proclamations,” said DART board vice chair Rodney Schlosser. “The community is hearing that, the press is hearing that and the legislature is certainly hearing it. This is our way of saying, we heard you.”
The committee ultimately advanced a draft budget that compromised a staff-proposed budget with one that capped the agency’s operating growth by 3%. Most directors agreed not to reduce significant services, such as light rail and increased hours for armed security guards.