Plano city leaders are hitting the brakes on plans to leave Dallas Area Rapid Transit, choosing instead to continue negotiations after the agency delivered what officials described as a “meaningful” new proposal.
City council members voted to table further action this week as talks continue over service levels, costs, and Plano’s long-term role in the regional transit system.
Plano has been weighing whether to withdraw from DART amid concerns that residents are paying more in sales taxes than the city receives in direct transit benefits.
Under state law, Plano could redirect its DART sales tax revenue to fund alternative transportation options, including local bus routes or on-demand microtransit, if it formally exits the system.
DART’s latest proposal, presented to Plano leaders in recent days, outlines potential changes aimed at addressing those concerns, including adjustments to service and financial commitments.
Plano officials said the offer was substantial enough to warrant further review before making any final decision on withdrawing from the regional agency.
The pause does not end Plano’s consideration of alternative transit models, but it does extend the timeline.
City leaders said they want more time to analyze DART’s proposal and its long-term implications for commuters, businesses, and regional connectivity before moving forward.
Plano is one of several North Texas cities that have publicly questioned their participation in DART in recent years, a debate that could have significant consequences for transportation planning across the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
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