Plano other North Texas cities calling for a 2026 vote to end its DART relationship
The city of Plano is giving residents the final say on whether to remain part of the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) system or seek alternative options. In a unanimous 8-0 vote Wednesday, the Plano City Council approved holding a special election in May 2026, joining Highland Park and Farmers Branch, which made similar moves this week.
City officials say the decision stems from growing concerns that Plano contributes far more to DART than it receives in service. Plano is among seven “donor cities” recently eligible for partial refunds under DART’s General Mobility Program.
The council has 45 days in which it can rescind the decision. If no rescission occurs, the special election is slated for May 2, 2026.
Plano Calls For Change
As Local Profile previously reported, an independent analysis by EY Associates revealed a sharp funding disparity between what Plano pays into the Dallas Area Rapid Transit system and what it receives in return. In 2023, the city contributed $109 million in tax revenue to DART, while only $44 million was spent within Plano. The findings, paired with reports that DART awarded more than $800,000 in executive bonuses last year, have fueled frustration among local and state leaders.
State Representative Matt Shaheen called the gap unacceptable, saying it highlights the need for major reforms within the system. He said Plano taxpayers are contributing far more than they get back, creating what he described as an “extreme imbalance” that can no longer be ignored.
Adding to the concern, Plano’s director of policy and government relations, Andrew Fortune, told the council that the city now sends over $120 million annually to DART — more than it allocates for both its police department and economic development combined. City officials say that the imbalance is driving the discussion about whether Plano should chart a new path for its public transit future.
The decision also follows state-level efforts to increase local control over transit funds. During the last legislative session, Plano officials supported House Bill 3187, which would have returned 25% of DART’s sales tax revenues to member cities. The bill failed, but DART has since approved a smaller 5% redistribution plan and agreed to keep working with the city to find a solution.
Photo: David Downs
“You know what? We’ve been continuing talking for six and a half years. Six and a half years of talking with no results,” said Mayor Pro Tem Maria Tu.
Exploring Alternatives
According to Fortune, Plano’s director of policy and government relations, city staff will use the time before the election to research alternatives such as micro-transit systems like Arlington’s Via or DART’s own GoLink.
“As Plano continues to grow, our community’s needs are evolving,” City Manager Mark Israelson previously said. “We need transit solutions that evolve with us to provide flexible and responsive options for everyone who lives and works in Plano.”
The Community Pushes Back
More than 100 residents spoke at the Nov. 5 meeting, with most urging the council not to withdraw from DART. Many shared personal stories about how the transit system supports their daily lives, warning that a withdrawal could leave vulnerable riders without reliable transportation.
“Without DART, as an autistic adult, I would not be able to do what I do in my life,” lifelong Plano resident Alex Flores said, explaining that the service provides stability and peace of mind. “When I think of DART, I think of safety and I think of a guaranteed trip to and from my home.”
Carrollton resident Jane Harman, who relies on DART to reach her medical care and physical therapy appointments in Plano, shared her fears about losing access. “I’m terrified at what’s going to happen if you vote me out. That’s what it amounts to,” she said. “I’ve been trying to hold my tears back for days over this. I don’t want to lose access to my medical care.”
DART Responds
DART President and CEO Nadine Lee attended the meeting to defend the agency’s progress. “Over the past four years, DART has invested $110 million to address safety, reliability and cleanliness. Crime on DART is down double digits,” she said. “The progress we’ve made comes from standing together and confronting our challenges as one region.”
Lee warned that if voters approve withdrawal, all DART services in Plano would end the day after the election. “I invite you to work with us with transparency, collaboration and good faith to resolve these issues in place of withdrawal,” she said.
What Comes Next
The May 2026 election will determine whether Plano remains with DART or pursues a new transit path. For now, city leaders say the coming months will be devoted to studying alternatives and continuing to press DART for reforms.
“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.”
If the council does not rescind its decision by the 45-day deadline, Plano residents will make their choice on May 2, 2026, a vote that could redefine the city’s transportation future.
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