Dallas Area Rapid Transit has received a $70 million Federal Transit Administration grant to help replace 53 light rail vehicles that have been in service for more than 30 years.
The competitive grant represents 42% of the federal funds available for rail vehicle replacement. DART is one of three transit agencies nationwide receiving a share of $166 million in FTA grants for rail replacement projects.
Grant Supports New Light Rail Fleet
DART plans to use the federal funding to purchase 53 new light rail vehicles. The agency said the replacement fleet is expected to improve vehicle performance, increase service reliability and strengthen the transit system’s resilience.
The new vehicles are also expected to provide a more comfortable ride while helping DART respond to current ridership needs and accommodate future growth.
The other agencies receiving rail replacement grants are Pittsburgh Regional Transit and the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority, or SEPTA.
Investment Part of DART Transform Program
The vehicle replacement project is a major component of DART Transform, the agency’s 10-year program focused on modernizing its system and managing aging assets.
The broader initiative includes investments in passenger and operating facilities, system infrastructure, resiliency, and vehicles. DART said the program is intended to strengthen its transit network and support its role as a regional mobility provider across North Texas.
“This grant award complements the $25 million U.S. DOT Build grant award we received earlier this summer for platform modifications in anticipation of the new light rail fleet,” said Trey Walker, DART interim executive vice president and chief development officer.
“The grants generously awarded by the FTA support our Transform program and allow DART to reinvest in aging infrastructure to ensure safe, reliable, and innovative transit options for the coming decades,” Walker said.
Procurement Process Underway
DART has begun the procurement process for the new vehicles, including issuing a request for proposals.
The light rail vehicle purchase is included in DART’s 20-year financial plan. The agency said federal grants such as the new FTA award can positively affect procurement and delivery considerations as it moves forward with the fleet replacement.
DART Serves 12 North Texas Cities
DART operates public transportation services across a 700-square-mile, 12-city service area that includes Addison, Carrollton, Cockrell Hill, Dallas, Farmers Branch, Garland, Glenn Heights, Irving, Richardson, Rowlett, Plano and University Park.
The agency operates light rail, Trinity Railway Express, regional rail, bus routes, GoLink on-demand service and paratransit. DART reports moving more than 171,000 passengers each day.
Provided by Dallas Express
