University Park is considering a significant move: a DART withdrawal election in 2026. This could make it the fifth city to take such a step. The City Council is set to vote on January 6 to see if the measure will go to voters on May 2. Residents will choose whether to keep or dissolve the Dallas Area Rapid Transit System (DART) in their city.
Texas law allows member cities to withdraw from DART only once every six years. With rising frustration over DART’s spending and services, cities are taking notice. Recently, Farmers Branch, Highland Park, Irving, and Plano have also planned withdrawal elections for the same day in May, signaling a growing trend of dissatisfaction.
On January 5, University Park council members will hold a special session with DART officials to discuss local services. Following that meeting, the council plans to consider an ordinance for withdrawal. If passed, voters will ultimately decide DART’s fate in the city.
University Park joined DART in 1983, contributing over $100 million in sales tax. Yet, the city has seen little return on that investment. In 2023, University Park contributed $6.4 million but received only $1.8 million in services. In comparison, Dallas contributed $407.8 million and received $690.5 million in services.
One issue is DART’s significant service cuts announced in fall 2025, mainly due to a budget shortfall of $42 to $43 million. During the same period, executive bonuses exceeded $2.4 million. This financial mismanagement has led to calls for change.
Officials have noted that cities like University Park face a “competitive disadvantage” compared to non-member cities. Recent Texas legislation has capped property tax increases, limiting cities’ ability to offset their obligations to DART.
If voters do choose to leave DART, services would cease immediately. However, cities may still need to cover part of DART’s ongoing debt. Former Plano City Councilman Shelby Williams referred to this as an “exit barrier,” suggesting that cities might end up in debt for years after withdrawal.
In preparation for potential withdrawal, some cities are exploring alternatives like partnerships with ride-sharing services. Meanwhile, groups such as the Dallas Area Transit Alliance are mobilizing opposition against these withdrawal efforts, advocating for the benefits of staying within DART.
If University Park voters choose to remain with DART, the next opportunity to leave will be in 2032. This election will be crucial as it reflects broader concerns regarding local governance and public transport in Texas.
For more information on DART’s financial operations, you can check out the details reported by Dallas News.
