DART launches Operation Access

Dallas Area Rapid Transit is starting a 90-day security initiative at five light rail stations in late fall. It's described as the largest coordinated security engagement in DART's history.

“Safety is fundamental to everything we do at DART.”

Five stations selected for pilot

Bachman, MLK Jr., Forest Lane, 8th & Corinth and White Rock stations were chosen using incident data and to provide coverage across rail lines entering and leaving downtown Dallas.

Multiple enforcement teams deployed

DART police officers, Fare Enforcement Officers and Transit Security Officers will work at control points and aboard trains. A controlled-access pilot will simulate a fare-gated system at stations with high fare evasion.

Data collection drives next steps

During the 90-day pilot, DART will track enforcement, staffing, passenger flow and technology needs. Results will determine which measures expand or change across the light rail system.

“Operation Access significantly increases our visible security presence while allowing us to gather the data necessary to determine what works.”

Phase two could include fare gates

DART will brief its board on October 13 about phase two, which may include installing fare gates at platforms, placing officers in first train cars, and changing fare policy and conduct rules.

DART already cutting crime 21 percent

The agency has reduced crimes against people by 21 percent this year and approved $35 million for camera upgrades and cleaning, plus $32 million for diversion programs to reduce repeat offenses.

“Operation Access builds on those investments by putting resources where the data tells us they are needed most.”