The Irving City Council will decide at its regular meeting on Thursday, November 6, whether to call a special election next May for voters to determine the city’s future with Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART). If approved, the measure would give residents the choice to either withdraw from DART and pursue alternative transit options or remain part of the regional system.
“We understand how important public transportation is for our community and are committed to ensuring Irving residents continue to have low-cost mobility opportunities,” said Irving Mayor Rick Stopfer. “We’ve grown increasingly concerned with DART’s reduced service levels, and according to our 2024 Resident Satisfaction Survey, only 1% of residents use DART or TRE daily while we invest more than $115 million each year.”
Irving has been a DART member city since 1983, contributing roughly $2 billion to the agency over four decades to support accessible transportation for residents, businesses, and visitors. City officials say they have repeatedly requested updated transit service and data demonstrating a return on that investment but have received limited response.
Systemwide DART ridership has dropped from 71 million users in 2013 to 48 million in 2023, even as Irving’s annual sales tax contribution more than doubled—from $52.4 million to $107.8 million over the same period.
City leaders also expressed frustration with recent service reductions. DART plans to eliminate the 225 and 255 bus routes in Irving, reducing the city’s total routes from seven to five—a 29% cut. The loss of the 225 route, which connects to the University of Dallas Orange Line station, will leave bus access to only three of the city’s eight rail stations.
“These reductions significantly impact residents’ access to healthcare, education, and job opportunities,” city officials stated.
If voters choose to leave DART, Irving leaders say they will redirect funds to develop a tailored microtransit system to meet local needs.
“We believe there are other mobility options that can serve our community more effectively,” Stopfer said. “It’s time for Irving voters to decide whether to continue with DART or support exploring new transportation solutions.”
For more information, visit IrvingTX.gov/Transit.
