Dallas, Texas – Dallas officials have taken a decisive step toward reshaping the future of regional public transportation, approving a resolution that supports a revised governance structure for Dallas Area Rapid Transit. The move signals the city’s intent to reinforce stability within the transit system while maintaining cooperation among the many municipalities that depend on it.
The proposed framework would give Dallas 45 percent of the voting power and seven seats on the governing board. At the same time, it preserves representation for every member city and prevents any single community from holding a majority. City leaders framed the structure as a balance between Dallas’ central role in the system and the need for shared regional oversight.
The council’s vote follows months of negotiations sparked by concerns over governance, service levels, and long-term funding. Tensions grew strong enough that six member cities scheduled withdrawal elections for May 2026.
Throughout those discussions, Dallas remained engaged in talks aimed at keeping the transit network unified and functional for riders across North Texas. Earlier this year, the city’s Transportation and Infrastructure Committee reviewed negotiation progress and offered direction that ultimately shaped the adopted resolution.
City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert described the decision as a meaningful step toward protecting a system relied upon daily by residents traveling to jobs, schools, and medical care. She emphasized that the outcome supports both the city and the broader region, underscoring the importance of a dependable transit network for economic mobility and community connection.
With governance terms now outlined, attention is shifting to financial questions that remain unresolved. The DART Board is continuing discussions on funding, while the Regional Transportation Council is expected to weigh its role in the proposal during a mid-February meeting.
