Between 2019 and 2021, transit-oriented developments within the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) service area resulted in nearly $1 billion in direct spending and the creation of approximately 11,000 jobs, according to a recent study by the University of North Texas Economic Research Group (ERG). DART President & CEO Nadine Lee announced these findings during her second annual State of the Agency address on Friday.
The study, led by Michael Carroll, Ph.D., assessed real estate development within a quarter-mile radius of DART stations and confirmed the economic benefits of these projects.
"Transit services provided by DART are critical to regional mobility. DART’s network is designed to connect riders across city boundaries and provide crucial access to jobs, education, health care, entertainment, and more," said Lee. "DART opens up social and economic development opportunities at all of our stations."
The address, held at the Renaissance Dallas Addison Hotel and sponsored by Archer Western Construction, also featured Addison Mayor Bruce Arfsten and DART Board Chair Gary Slagel.
Lee emphasized DART’s history of fiscal responsibility, stating, "We project every dollar we will spend over the next two decades and our board members approve that plan every year. We plan and budget well within our means – and we have a long history of doing so."
The ERG study highlighted the economic impact of 31 development projects around DART stations from 2019 to 2021, including commercial, residential, and public developments:
- Direct Spending: Over $980 million
- Total Economic Impact: $17.1 billion
- Job Creation: 10,747 jobs
- Tax Revenue: $144.7 million in federal tax revenue and $49.6 million in state and local tax revenue
Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, the DFW region experienced significant economic activity during this period. Carroll noted that the trend of developing properties near light rail stations is seen nationwide.
The study used IMPLAN software to analyze the economic effects of development spending, which revealed continuous growth around DART stations. "Proximity to DART adds value to development," Lee stated.
Carroll added, "The development near DART light rail stations has not only provided transit accessibility but also boosted the economic wellbeing of the DFW region."
As the DFW area continues to urbanize, integrating transit as a strategic mobility asset remains crucial for sustaining economic growth and connectivity.
