Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) is preparing to notify riders about possible service disruptions if employees of contractor Transdev Services, Inc. go on strike, according to a written statement released yesterday.
Though a walkout has not been called, DART officials said negotiations between Transdev and the union are ongoing. The agency said it will continue to operate all scheduled trips, but warned some riders could experience delays or longer wait times if a strike occurs.
DART contracts with Transdev to provide microtransit services through its Paratransit and GoLink programs. Paratransit offers door-to-door transportation for eligible riders with disabilities who cannot use fixed-route buses or trains, while GoLink provides on-demand service within designated zones across the system.
The potential labor action stems from a June 4 vote by members of Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1388 authorizing a strike. The vote does not involve DART employees, said DART in the written statement.
“DART remains hopeful Transdev and ATU Local 1388 can come to an agreement. However, we have a responsibility to prepare our riders for potential disruptions to the services they rely on,” said Trenise Winters, DART Executive Vice President and Chief Operations Officer, adding, “By activating contingency plans now, we can maintain continuity of service in the event a strike does occur.”
If a strike occurs, DART said it will prioritize communication with affected paratransit riders and work to create individualized trip plans where possible, and also anticipates delays across affected services, according to the written statement.
Riders would be able to track trips through the DART Paratransit mobile app, available on the Apple App Store and Google Play, or by calling an automated system at 214-515-7272. Trip booking would remain available by phone at 214-515-7272 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days a week, through the DART Paratransit app, or online at dart.org/ridepara.
According to the agency, in cases of significant delays, Transdev or DART staff may contact riders directly to offer updates or alternative options. Recurring reservations will be prioritized, though new bookings will still be accepted, it said.
DART urged customers to plan ahead and allow additional travel time if disruptions occur.
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