DART Explores Funding Options for Next Growth Phase
As part of their review of agency finances, Dallas Area Rapid Transit officials are reviewing funding strategies for capital projects scheduled beyond the current 37-mi light-rail expansion. The projected shortfall in sales tax revenue will result in the indefinite delay in the third section of the Orange Line, from Irving to Terminal A at DFW Airport, the second Downtown Dallas alignment and the Blue Line extension from Ledbetter Station to the UNT Dallas campus.
The completion of the Green Line from Pleasant Grove to Carrollton and the new Lake Highlands Station in December; the Blue Line extension from Garland to Rowlett and the first two sections of the Orange Line from Bachman Station in Northwest Dallas to Irving in 2012, are not affected by the projected shortfall. The proposed 20-year financial plan includes $4.7 billion in capital project funds for the rail expansion and other projects such as the planned purchase of new buses and other items required to maintain the agency’s state of good repair.