January 12, 2025 - TRA Newswire -

Besides the good news that Trinity Metro's TEXRail had its highest ever December ridership of 103,312, the agency just received word from the U.S. Department of Transportation that it is the recipient of a $25 million grant to extend the rail line into Fort Worth's Near Southside.

December ridership on the Fort Worth to DFW International Airport line was up 25% in December over the previous period in 2023. 

In a statement, Trinity Metro President and CEO Rich Andrewski said “These incredible ridership numbers are a true testament to our partner cities who have embraced public transit and the benefits Trinity Metro TEXRail brings to their communities. With their signature holiday events and promotion of the rail service, we are connecting more people to life.”  

That news was quickly followed by the announcement of a $25 million Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) grant from Washington. The extension of the rail line from the T&P Station to a new station 2.1 miles away in the Medical District will open up new travel opportunities. 

The extension project, pegged at $167 million will still need about $20 million before construction begins. New service at the Near Southside station will serve a neighborhood of over 100,000 in Fort Worth. 

Huitt-Zollars and TranSystems are the design consultants for the rail extension. The station will be located near Mistletoe Boulevard.  After completion, slated for 2026, the rail line will total nearly 30 miles from DFW Airport into the south side of Fort Worth.