FORT WORTH (WBAP/KLIF)- U.S. Senator John Cornyn announces a $200 million federal grant that helps fund Trinity Metro’s TEXRail commuter rail system that opened in January.
The 27-mile commuter rail takes passengers to and from downtown Fort Worth to DFW airport.
“The TexRail project is a tremendous economic benefit for the entire region,” said Frank Crosely, Chief Financial Officer at Trinity Metro.Crosely said it eases congestion, it’s cost effective for passengers. Starting Sunday, Trinity Metro will also almost double the amount of trips daily. During peak hours, the wait time will be cut in half.
Trinity Metro also launches a ride share service ‘ZipZone’ taking passengers from the Mercantile Center Station to businesses nearby.
The city of Fort Worth and Trinity Metro have launched its plan to make the new TEXRail train service more connective from Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport to busy business corridors.
With approximately 18,000 jobs in the area near the station, there are few transportation options after riders exit the train. City documents say it is difficult to establish a high-performing, fixed-route bus service.
Fort Worth allocated $500,000 for the service and Trinity Metro did the same for a 12-month test of the service to measure its effectiveness and usage.
The Mercantile ZIPZONE will operate 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. There will be no charge to use the service at launch. After the free period, rides will vary $1 to $3.