Texas Bill Threatens DART Funding, Transit and Jobs

A new bill in Texas could cut DART’s sales tax funding by 25%, forcing severe service reductions, job losses, and delayed transit projects. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

The legislation, House Bill 3187, recently passed the Texas House Transportation Committee and is now moving forward. If enacted, it would eliminate 5,800 jobs, halt capital plans, and reduce services by over 30%.

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Texas lawmakers backing the bill want to reallocate a quarter of DART’s funding to other transit programs. This redirection would delay or cancel over $3.5 billion in development near DART rail stations.

DART officials warn that these changes will hurt low-income families, seniors, and people with disabilities. They also say Texas must maintain strong transit access ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Texas Bill Could Undermine Transit Access for Millions

Jeamy Molina, DART’s chief communications officer, stated that the bill is not a minor change but a dismantling of the system. She said voters supported regional transit twice, and this bill ignores that decision.

Rep. Matt Shaheen, who wrote the bill, argues that some Texas cities pay more for DART than they receive. He supports a more balanced funding model among the 13 member communities.

Texas Cities Face Long-Term Impacts From Funding Cuts

Transit advocates fear reduced mobility, weaker economic growth, and environmental setbacks if the bill passes. They stress that strong regional transit is vital for future development and sustainability.

The decision on this Texas bill could reshape how North Texas funds and operates public transportation. As lawmakers debate, the future of regional transit hangs in the balance.

Source: www.progressiverailroading.com

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