Is Arlington, Texas, the largest city in the US without mass public transit?
Published: Sun, 11/26/23
Is Arlington, Texas, the largest city in the US without mass public transit?
Yes.
Fort Worth Report
by Haley Samsel
With a population of 395,000, Arlington remains the largest U.S. city without a mass public transit system, including bus or rail.
Voters have rejected proposals to create public transit three times since 1980, with many residents opposing a bus system. Between 2013 and 2017, the city funded a single bus route operated by Dallas Area Rapid Transit.
Citing low ridership, Arlington officials discontinued the route in December 2017 and replaced the program with a ride-sharing service. Residents can book rides through Arlington On-Demand until at least December 2024.
With Arlington slated to host 2026 World Cup matches and the 2024 MLB All-Star Game, officials are exploring new transit options to venues like AT&T Stadium and Globe Life Field. The city has announced a partnership with an electric air taxi company and set aside $17.5 million for street, transit and traffic projects in the entertainment district.
Sources
City of Arlington New app available for citywide rideshare public transportation service, now known as Arlington On-Demand
The Dallas Morning News Why is there no mass public transportation to get to the World Series in Arlington?
Ars Technica This city has a vision for mass transit that doesn’t involve city buses
KERA News Arlington’s rideshare service Via hits milestones as commuters feel pain at the gas pump
KERA News Arlington, regional officials consider local funds to pay for World Cup improvements
City of Arlington Overair, City of Arlington to develop and launch eVTOL operations at Arlington Municipal Airport