Addison Voters Choose Between DART Funding and Via Microtransit

Context Addison, University Park and Highland Park hold a withdrawal election that could end DART service in each city. A “yes” vote keeps DART; a “no” vote ends bus and train service after results are certified on May 12. DART’s 1 % sales tax would remain until existing debts are cleared.

Key Facts - Addison currently contributes roughly $17.6 million per year to DART through its sales tax. - In March, the city council approved a $1.85 million yearly contract with Via for the Addison Orbit microtransit service, which users request via an app and are dropped at one of seven DART stops if outside city limits. - Councilman Randy Smith praised Via’s door‑to‑door model, saying he prefers seeing a ride on his phone and staying indoors rather than waiting for a DART bus in adverse weather. - Opponents cite reliability concerns. Resident Charlisa Moore, who relies on DART for a daily commute to downtown Dallas, called the alternative “not gonna work.” Councilman Chris DeFrancisco warned that commuters from neighboring cities could face a 12‑minute wait for a bus after a Via drop‑off.

What It Means If voters reject DART, the transit agency will lose $17.6 million in annual revenue from Addison, potentially prompting service cuts or fare adjustments across the network. The city would then rely on Via’s $1.85 million contract, a cost roughly one‑tenth of the current DART contribution. Proponents argue the app‑based service offers greater convenience and lower expense, while critics fear reduced coverage and longer wait times for riders outside the city.

The outcome will test whether a small‑scale microtransit model can replace a regional bus and rail system. Watch the certification of results on May 12 and any subsequent negotiations between Addison and DART for service continuity.