[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 133 (Friday, August 4, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E753]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     HONORING THE DALLAS AREA RAPID TRANSIT (DART) 40TH ANNIVERSARY

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                        HON. MICHAEL C. BURGESS

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, August 4, 2023

  Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, today I stand to commemorate a momentous 
milestone in the history of North Texas. It is with great excitement 
that we celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Dallas Area Rapid Transit 
(DART) system, a creation that has continued to link our communities 
together over the years.
  Four decades ago, in 1983, a vision was born to transform the Dallas 
Regional Transport system--a limited municipal bus system--into a well-
developed transportation network that would connect our neighborhoods, 
bridge distances, and bring people closer together. Today, we stand 
with great appreciation for that dream as the DART has served not only 
as a system of trains but also to unify the metropolitan area.
  Throughout its history, the transport system started as a small rail 
line of just 65 miles that connected Denison to Downtown Dallas. Moving 
forward, the rail line served a greater purpose than just transporting 
people, but also worked to transport the workers and materials that 
have helped advance the development of our beloved North Texas 
communities. Today, this system boasts over 90 miles of track, making 
it one of the longest light rails in the United States. DART not only 
has connected people across the community but has also continued to 
serve as a means of promoting economic growth by providing greater 
access to local businesses.
  I stand here today to celebrate the accomplishments we have seen over 
the past 40 years; it is important to continue to look forward. As the 
greater Dallas area continues to grow and evolve, DART will continue to 
serve not just as a train but as a means to connect our community. 
Congratulations on 40 years.

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