The Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) Silver Line, an ambitious $2.1 billion rail project connecting Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) with surrounding cities, was officially launched in late October.
DART plans to use the rails for passenger travel, utilizing state-of-the-art electric diesel vehicles designed to meet Environmental Protection Agency standards and reduce emissions. The agency has also noted that it will share the corridor with freight operations and will ensure all vehicles are also compliant with Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) standards.
As the Silver Line continues to expand, DART anticipates connecting it with additional rail lines in the future. Plans also include integrating the line with the North Central Texas Council of Government’s (NCTCOG) Cotton Belt Regional Trail, providing a safe hike and bike options for nonmotorized travelers.
Four member cities are considering ending their involvement in the project over perceived returns. The four major contributors include Plano, Irving, Farmer’s Branch and Highland Park – all of which have announced plans to hold a special election in May to determine if they maintain the partnership. Despite uncertainty, DART remains steadfast in delivering reliable interconnected rail service as plans for the Silver Line continue to confidently move forward.
Should the cities vote to maintain their partnership with DART, the 26-mile line will provide a direct connection between DFW and seven regional municipalities – Grapevine, Coppell, Dallas, Carrollton, Addison, Richardson and Plano. A total of 10 stops have been added to provide service to those areas.
The line crosses three counties, offering service and accessibility to connect residents with critical amenities, jobs and educational opportunities. In total, the project has 13 member cities who will directly benefit from continual rail operations.
Photo by Joaquin Carfagna from Pexels
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