Testing of Dallas Area Rapid Transit’s (DART) highly anticipated Silver Line program has officially begun across North Texas, marking a critical milestone for the new 26-mile commuter rail line that will connect DFW Airport to the Shiloh Road Station in Plano.
Seven Cities Meet on a Single Line
The DART Silver Line route connects seven major cities in North Texas: Grapevine, Coppell, Dallas, Carrollton, Addison, Richardson and Plano. With the completion of 53 miles of new line, Dallas Area Rapid Transit is one step closer to beginning full passenger service later this year.
Testing the System with Simulated Voyages
Simulated service testing of the DART Silver Line program began the week of April 27 and ran from Downtown Carrollton Station to the University of Texas (UTD) Station in Dallas. Test service runs Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. During this testing phase, trains will make stops at major stations including Downtown Carrollton, Addison, Knoll Trail and UTD, but will not yet be accepting passengers. Trains will sound their horns at crossings as part of standard safety procedures, but quiet zone regulations will be followed once full service resumes.
90% of Construction Completed, Opening in Late Summer
As of now, DART is more than 90% done with construction of the Silver Line, with the remaining final work scheduled to be completed by the end of June. The full route is expected to open in late summer 2025, significantly increasing regional mobility across North Texas. This planned rigorous testing of the DART Silver Line will help ensure system reliability and staff readiness, setting the stage for smooth operations when the service officially opens to the public.
Expected Timetable for Passengers
Once fully operational, DART Silver Line service will offer regular, frequent service between Plano and DFW Airport. This will mean faster, more efficient and comfortable transportation options for area residents, tourists and business travelers. By successfully completing the DART Silver Line program and system testing, Dallas Area Rapid Transit continues to support the region’s continued growth and provide sustainable transportation solutions for this increasingly connected metropolitan area.
