DART approves up to $71.5 million for bus stop upgrades

DART's board approved a five-year contract with Tolar Manufacturing authorizing up to $71.5 million to modernize and expand bus stop amenities, with upgrades to be phased through 2030.

Dallas Area Rapid Transit leaders approved a plan to modernize bus stops across its service area. The board authorized a five-year contract with Tolar Manufacturing Company that allows up to $71.5 million in spending and includes two one-year options. DART said the work will add and replace shelters, seating, lighting and passenger technology to improve accessibility and comfort. The decision follows years of planning, pilot programs and rider feedback. Key details: - The board approved a five-year contract with Tolar Manufacturing Company, plus two one-year options, authorizing up to $71.5 million. - Planned infrastructure includes 1,350 shelters equipped with benches, real-time arrival displays and modern passenger technology. - Additional items listed are 1,500 steel benches, 3,000 trash cans and 500 lights, and DART plans to add 350 new shelter locations and upgrade more than 1,000 existing shelters. - Accessibility improvements will include new concrete pads, sidewalks and curb ramps to better serve riders with mobility needs. - DART reported that surveys of more than 4,200 riders found about 90% viewed the proposed shelter design as an improvement over existing stops. Summary: DART says the investment is intended to improve accessibility, lighting, seating and the availability of real-time service information for riders. Implementation will occur in phases under the approved contract, with upgrades scheduled through 2030. The board framed the move as the outcome of planning, pilot testing and rider feedback.