Addison may soon become the fifth North Texas city to consider withdrawing from Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART), as the town council prepares to decide whether residents should vote on the issue in a spring election. If approved, Addison would join Plano, Farmers Branch, Highland Park and Irving in placing DART membership on the ballot.

Cities considering withdrawal argue they are not receiving transit services proportional to the one-cent sales tax they contribute annually to DART. Local leaders say rising costs and limited service options have prompted a reassessment of the long-standing regional transit partnership.

In a statement to CBS News Texas, a DART spokesperson acknowledged Addison’s upcoming vote and emphasized the agency’s willingness to negotiate. “DART remains committed to negotiating transparently and in good faith to ensure North Texans have access to transit solutions that work best for them,” the statement said.

Plano recently submitted a proposal to DART that would maintain rail service and express bus routes while eliminating most local bus services. Under the plan, the city would retain roughly half of its annual DART contribution but would need to create a federally compliant paratransit alternative. DART is still reviewing the proposal.

State lawmakers representing Plano-area districts expressed differing concerns. Democratic Representative Mihaela Plesa of Dallas warned that withdrawal could have immediate consequences for residents who rely on transit services. She cited a recent Texas Department of Transportation report highlighting the state’s heavy dependence on cars and growing population pressures.

“Withdrawal isn’t theoretical,” Plesa said. “It triggers an immediate shutdown of all DART services, including federally required paratransit. Without a fully funded, compliant system ready on day one, many people would be left without transportation options.”

Republican Representative Matt Shaheen of Prosper placed responsibility on DART, saying cities like Plano have spent years seeking financial accommodations. “This is a reflection on the failure of DART,” Shaheen said, adding that Plano is exploring alternative transit models, including partnerships with ride-share services at significantly lower costs.

As Addison weighs its next step, the broader debate over regional transit funding, equity and long-term mobility continues to intensify across North Texas.