As North Texans look toward a new year of healthier living, one simple yet powerful shift begins before the workday even starts: how we commute. Dallas Area Rapid Transit’s (DART) Park & Ride system offers a practical solution that supports personal wellness while helping reduce our region’s environmental footprint.

By parking at a designated DART lot and riding rail or bus for the remainder of the trip, commuters significantly cut down on single-occupancy vehicle use—one of the largest contributors to air pollution and traffic congestion across Dallas–Fort Worth. Fewer cars on the road translate to reduced greenhouse gas emissions, lower ozone levels and cleaner air for everyone. DART’s growing fleet of electric light rail vehicles and low-emission buses plays a direct role in improving regional air quality, advancing a vision of more breathable, sustainable communities.

Health and Lifestyle Perks

Beyond its environmental impact, Park & Ride offers meaningful health benefits that align with holistic living. Removing yourself from daily stop-and-go traffic reduces stress, frustration and mental fatigue. Less time gripping the steering wheel and navigating congestion means lower levels of cortisol and tension, supporting emotional balance and sustained clarity throughout the day.

Many riders also enjoy gentle built-in movement—walking from parking areas to transit platforms—which contributes to improved circulation, joint mobility and daily activity. Over time, these small steps add up, supporting cardiovascular health and increased energy levels.

One of the most significant benefits is often overlooked: reclaimed productivity. Instead of wasting time behind the wheel, commuters can turn their travel time into focused work sessions. Whether answering emails, preparing reports, organizing schedules or reviewing presentations, the ability to use a laptop or mobile device onboard allows riders to maximize efficiency and arrive more organized and composed. This shift not only supports professional performance but also creates more personal time in the evening—enhancing work-life balance and overall wellbeing.

Realistic Commute Times

Commute times will vary based on departure point and destination, but many riders experience efficient and predictable travel windows. Typical Park & Ride transit commutes into central Dallas range between 30 and 50 minutes for the rail portion—often comparable or even faster than driving during peak congestion. When factoring in reduced stress, productive time and consistent scheduling, the overall value becomes even more compelling.

A Small Change with Big Impact

DART Park & Ride represents a practical step toward healthier living that benefits individuals, families and the broader community. By reducing emissions, encouraging movement, lowering commuting stress and reclaiming valuable time, it transforms an everyday routine into an act of self-care and environmental stewardship.

For those committed to  healthy, conscious, sustainable choices, adopting Park & Ride is a tangible way to support both personal vitality and a cleaner North Texas—one commute at a time.

For more information visit DART.org/guide 

Commute Consciously and Efficiently

DART Park & Ride Locations & Sample Travel Times

COLLIN COUNTY
Parker Road Station – Plano
Red Line to Downtown Dallas
Approx. 45–50 minutes to West End Station

CityLine/Bush Station – Richardson
Red Line to Uptown & Downtown
Approx. 35–40 minutes to Akard Station

DENTON COUNTY
Trinity Mills Station – Carrollton
Green Line to Downtown Dallas
Approx. 40–45 minutes to Pearl/Arts District

ROCKWALL COUNTY
Downtown Rowlett Station
Blue Line to Dallas Core
Approx. 45–55 minutes to Mockingbird Station

TARRANT COUNTY (via TRE Connection)
CentrePort / DFW Airport Station
TRE + DART integration
Approx. 50–60 minutes to Victory Station

Rider Tip

Most DART Park & Ride lots are free for transit users and offer abundant parking. Use the GoPass® app to plan routes, track real-time arrivals and check exact commute times before you travel.

For more information visit DART.org