Plano may soon ask residents to decide whether the city should part ways with Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART), a move that could reshape public transportation in North Texas.
Despite the long-awaited opening of the DART Silver Line, Plano, along with Farmers Branch and Highland Park, is considering placing a measure on the May ballot to withdraw from the regional transit system. The proposal comes after years of frustration over what local leaders describe as an imbalance between the money their cities contribute and the services they receive in return.
“Plano is committed to ensuring safe, reliable mobility options that serve the best interests of our residents,” said Mayor John Muns in an official statement. “We want our council and community to feel empowered to choose what transportation options work best for us.”
The Plano City Council will hold a special session at 5 p.m. on Nov. 5 to decide whether to place the issue on the ballot.
Plano Sees Financial Imbalance
An independent study conducted by EY Associates found a stark spending gap: in 2023, Plano taxpayers contributed $109 million to DART, while only $44 million was spent within the city. City officials say the discrepancy, combined with recent revelations that DART awarded more than $800,000 in executive bonuses last year, has pushed the issue to a breaking point.
“When Plano taxpayers invest $109 million for DART services, but only receive $44 million in return, it is clear that an extreme imbalance exists and alternatives need to be discussed,” said State Representative Matt Shaheen. “I am beyond disappointed with DART’s failure to work with Plano and other cities on their failure to enact equitable reforms.”
DART Responds
DART CEO Nadine Lee addressed the potential departures in an Oct. 29 press conference, expressing disappointment that the discussion was happening so soon after major milestones for the agency. DART CEO Nadine Lee described the situation as “heartbreaking,” adding that the loss of member cities would “severely impact” the agency’s ability to serve riders during next year’s World Cup.
Photo: DART
“It’s really devastating and frustrating to understand that they would do this not only on the heels of a wonderful and successful opening of the Silver Line last week, but on the eve of the World Cup,” Lee said.
If the Plano City Council votes to proceed, residents could weigh in on the issue as early as May 2026. Farmers Branch and Highland Park are also expected to consider similar measures in upcoming council meetings in November.
Exploring Alternatives
Regardless of the outcome, Plano officials say the city remains committed to maintaining accessible transportation options for residents — including people with disabilities, seniors and those who rely on public transit.
“As Plano continues to grow, our community’s needs are evolving,” said City Manager Mark Israelson. “We need transit solutions that evolve with us to provide flexible and responsive options for everyone who lives and works in Plano.”
Funding is already earmarked for a Microtransit system, designed to provide fast, flexible rides within the city’s limits.
“We need our money spent to benefit our Plano residents,” said Mayor Pro Tem Maria Tu in a social media post. “We need our own transit system dedicated to Plano’s needs and interests.”
If approved, Plano’s exit from DART would mark one of the most significant transportation shifts in the region’s history, potentially trading buses and trains for a more localized, on-demand system built to fit the city’s future.
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