DART hearings to include SNAP enrollees in reduced fare program; free paratransit rides on election day

Typically an announcement of a DART hearing regarding fares signals a fare increase request. However, this time DART is actually looking at ways to make public transportation more affordable for low-income groups. They also are expanding free rides on election day.

The DART Board of Directors has called for a public hearing, preceded by a pair of pre-public hearing meetings, to consider proposed fare structure adjustments. These changes, to take effect January 1, 2020, would include:

• Expansion of the Reduced Fare category for bus and rail to include enrollees in the following programs: Texas Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program, Medicaid or other low-income groups as approved by the DART Board; this would be implemented as a pilot program in effect until September 30, 2021.
• Addition of Paratransit customer for free rides from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. on any state or national primary or general election day. Showing a valid voter registration card.
• Revision of the free fare policy to require full payment on Bus Route 524 (aka Love Link, currently free shuttle service between Love Field Airport and Inwood/Love Field Station). This shuttle will no longer be free.

The pre-public hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, July 2 at noon and again at 6:30 p.m.  Then the final public hearing will be at 6:30 p.m. a week later on July 9. Both meetings will be held at the DART Headquarters – Board Room located at 1401 Pacific Ave.

Opportunity for public input

The DART Board of Directors encourages public comments on the night of the public hearing or in writing beforehand. Those desiring to speak should contact DART Community Engagement at 214-749-2543 to register. Advance registration will be accepted until 1 p.m. on the day of the hearing. Those who have not pre-registered may sign up immediately before the hearing begins and will be scheduled to speak after those who have pre-registered.

In addition, written comments received any time before the hearing is adjourned will become a part of the official hearing record. Written comments may be submitted the night of the hearing or mailed in advance to: