Plano Charts New Transit Future with DART Funding Pact
City’s decisive agreement sets stage for regional mobility transformation and new service partnerships through 2032
Plano is setting the pace for regional transit change after passing a new Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) funding agreement, a move that could reshape mobility across North Texas for years to come.
With the city council’s unanimous vote, Plano rescinded its planned May election on DART withdrawal, signaling a commitment to both the agency’s future and new local transit solutions.
The agreement, recently approved by the DART board, aims to heal fractured relationships with member cities by returning a larger share of sales tax revenue to 13 partners over the next six years. In exchange, cities agree to cancel withdrawal elections, stabilizing DART’s funding base and enabling long-term planning.
According to the broadcaster, NBC 5 DFW, Plano’s representative on the DART board, Anthony Ricciardelli, supported the deal but noted it falls short of addressing all concerns, especially given the significant contributions of cities that had considered leaving.
City leaders acknowledge the agreement isn’t perfect but see it as a step forward. The interlocal pact guarantees base funding for mobility projects and opens new revenue opportunities for Plano. Importantly, the next chance for voters to revisit DART membership won’t come until 2032, providing a window for the city and agency to deliver on their promises.
Looking ahead, Plano is also expanding its transit options. The city council approved a contract with Via, a new provider, to serve areas not currently reached by DART. This partnership, initially valued at nearly $4 million, will bring flexible transit and improved ridership data collection to Plano residents.
As other cities like Farmers Branch, Irving, and Denton prepare for their own pivotal DART votes, the region’s transit landscape is poised for transformation. City leaders and DART officials agree: the work is just beginning to build a system that meets the needs of all communities.