Mario Zavala, project communications manager for DART, provided an update on the Silver Line during the July 15 Richardson biannual meeting.
Two-impact impact
The Silver Line is a 26-mile rail service traversing seven cities with a final connection at DFW International Airport, according to the agency's website.
“This is a very big project for DART because it’s our very first project moving east to west,” Zavala said. “It’s a big project too because it provides multiple connectivity points.”
Zavala said testing for the Silver Line is currently underway and expected to make an announcement on when revenue service is set to begin in the coming months.
Testing includes simulating service, meaning the trains stop at every station so DART staff can ensure the gate timing is correct and flashing lights and horns are working correctly.
A closer look
Once operational, the train is expected to run from 4-12:30 a.m., with trains traveling both directions every 30 minutes during peak weekday service hours—6-9 a.m. and 4-7 p.m. During non-peak hours, frequency will be once an hour, Zavala said.
In addition, trains for special events, such as Kaboomtown in Addition, can be arranged between cities and DART.
Both Richardson Silver Line stations, CityLine/Bush Station and UT Dallas Station, are roughly 98% complete.
Beyond that, Zavala said the agency is focused on creating “fantastic spaces” and, as a result, every Silver Line station will be in a transit-oriented development with retail, restaurant and housing options nearby.
What else
Unlike the Red, Blue, Green and Orange Line, The Silver Line will be a heavy rail, meaning the trains have a higher capacity and run on diesel fuel, Zavala said.
Each train will have an engineer and a conductor, who will check tickets and assist passengers. Trains will have a capacity of 230 passengers and multidirectional seats, overhead storage and large luggage compartments for airport trips.
Additionally, DART purchased a building at 3201 Technology in Plano, which will act as the Silver Line’s equipment maintenance facility where trains will be serviced, cleaned and refueled.
What’s next
Zavala said the Silver Line’s schedule may change pending the DART board of directors’ August vote on potential service cuts, which would have an impact on every service the agency provides.
Another community meeting is scheduled for Plano at 6 p.m., July 17 at the Harrington Library at 1501 18th St.
