Dallas Area Rapid Transit has been working to finalize its budget for 2025 and its 20-year financial plan amid resolutions by more than half of its member cities to cut funding to the agency.
Here’s a look at DART’s recent financials and projections for the upcoming fiscal year 2025, which begins in October:
DART’s 2025 proposed annual budget
Capital and non-operating expenses, which include Silver Line construction and system modernization, make up the greatest share of DART’s projected expenses. Operating costs come in second, followed by debt service.
Operating expenses, FY 2025 (projected)
Labor costs like salaries and benefits account for the biggest portion of DART’s projected operating expenses, with more than $325 million allocated for that portion of the budget in the next fiscal year.
Capital expenditures, FY 2025 (projected)
DART’s capital expenditures include its capital projects aimed at expanding and maintaining service. Construction and maintenance of the agency’s light rail system, including construction of the new Silver Line, are expected to account for much of DART’s capital expenditures next year.
Year-over-year debt service
DART will commit more than $220 million to its total debt service budget in fiscal year 2025, an increase of less than 1% over 2024.
Tax contributions by city
DART’s member cities contributed more than $834 million in sales tax revenue to DART in fiscal year 2023. That number has grown to $870 million this year and is expected to increase about 4.5% in fiscal year 2025.
Sales tax revenue represents about 70% of the transit agency’s overall budget. Other revenue sources include fares, federal funds, interest and debt issuances.
Percentage of sales tax used for expenses
This chart from DART indicates the amount of sales tax revenue required to fund operations in each category.
