Good news for travelers through DFW International Airport: Dallas Area Rapid Transit opened its much-anticipated Orange Line segment at the new DFW Airport Station August 18, linking the country’s longest light rail system to the world’s third-busiest airport. The 5-mile segment connects the newly renovated Terminal A and Belt Line Station with continuing service to regional destinations like Irving-Las Colinas, Dallas Market Center, and downtown Dallas.
DFW Airport constructed the new station as part of its Terminal Renewal and Improvement Program, with DART contractors focusing on the rail line extension. DART President and Executive Director Gary Thomas said that sharing construction responsibilities allowed it to open in mid-August, four months ahead of schedule.
Acting Federal Transit Administrator Therese McMillan sees the DART expansion as something that will make Dallas more competitive and a more attractive destination for businesses and travelers. “It’s part of a sustained partnership over decades that’s bringing billions in investment, more jobs, and a better quality of life to North Texas,” McMillan said.
DART held a dedication luncheon to celebrate the opening, at which videotaped remarks from Texas Gov. Rick Perry extended congratulations for the opening of the new station. “It’s a great day for the people of the 13 cities who are a part of the DART system who now have another convenient, affordable way to catch a flight, and for people coming to North Texas to easily get to a business meeting, a family event, or just take in some of our state’s many attractions,” Perry said in the video.
