Transit in Farmers Branch
At its February 25 Special-Called Meeting, the Farmers Branch City Council voted to rescind the previously ordered DART withdrawal election and remain in Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) by approving participation in the General Mobility Program (GMP) Interlocal Agreement.
After reviewing the financial, legal, and operational impacts of both staying in and leaving DART, the Council determined that remaining in the system is the most fiscally responsible option to protect taxpayers and the City’s long-term stability.
What This Means for Farmers Branch
Through the GMP agreement, Farmers Branch will receive a defined allocation of DART sales tax revenue through a phased approach over six years to fund locally directed mobility and infrastructure projects. This provides meaningful flexibility and the ability to prioritize improvements that directly serve our residents and businesses. It strengthens the City's capacity to invest in:
- Street improvements
- Traffic operations
- Pedestrian connectivity
- Other transportation enhancements
At the same time, the City maintains regional transit access and retains a seat at the table to advocate for stronger governance, transparency, and fair investment within the DART system. This decision reflects the Council’s commitment to fiscal responsibility, accountability, and long-term community benefit. Throughout this process, resident input and thoughtful engagement have been valued and considered. Farmers Branch will continue to communicate transparently, ask difficult questions when necessary, and act in the best interest of our residents and businesses as we work to strengthen mobility, economic opportunity, and quality of life for our entire community.
Background
Farmers Branch has long been a proud and active supporter of public transportation. Since joining Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) in 1983, the City has invested more than $500 million toward improving mobility and regional connectivity, funded entirely through local sales tax.
Today, one cent of every dollar spent in Farmers Branch, half of the City's total sales tax capacity, supports DART, generating approximately $25 million each year to sustain transit options that benefit residents, employers, and visitors alike. A 2023 independent study found that Farmers Branch contributed $24.3 million to DART that year, with approximately $20.8 million in DART spending occurring within the city.
City leaders have been working to ensure that the level of service received reflects the community's continued commitment and financial partnership. In November 2025, the Farmers Branch City Council approved Ordinance No. 3779, ordering a special election to consider withdrawal from the DART system.
In November 2025, Farmers Branch residents were invited to share their input to help guide the City's evaluation and ensure that community perspectives play a central role in planning the future of mobility in Farmers Branch. All responses were anonymous.
Farmers Branch & DART
For decades, Farmers Branch has contributed 1 cent of our sales tax-50% of our total local sales tax-to DART.
Contribution Vs. Service Value
- Farmers Branch has contributed $500 million since becoming a member city of DART in 1983.
- Independent analysis shows that in 2023, Farmers Branch contributed $24.3 million, while only $20.8 million was spent in Farmers Branch.
- Farmers Branch City Council will continue to work with DART to ensure equitable service delivery for the residents of Farmers Branch.
Service Expectations
Farmers Branch residents deserve reliable, safe, and accessible transit that reflects our investment.
Bus Stops
In 2023, DART spent $304.1 million on bus service, with only $4.6 million spent in Farmers Branch. Of the bus stops in the DART system, only 1.6% are in Farmers Branch.
Routes & Service Requests
In 2023, DART spent $14.9 million on GoLink, with only $0.5 million spent in Farmers Branch.
Allocation of DART's Fiscal Year 2023 Expenditures By Member City, Ernst & Young (EY).pdf
DART Letter - December 17, 2025