DCTA reports strong growth in A Train ridership and Highland Village station traffic

On April 17, 2025, the Highlands - Highland Village Community Development Corporation convened to discuss key transportation initiatives and ridership statistics that are shaping mobility in the region. The meeting highlighted the performance of the GoZone service and the A Train, both of which are crucial for connecting Highland Village and surrounding areas.

A significant focus was placed on the GoZone ridership data, particularly concerning the 407 corridor, which has shown a notable concentration of riders. This data underscores the importance of the GoZone service not only for Highland Village but also for neighboring communities like Allen and Fairview, which contribute financially despite not being member cities. The discussions revealed a need for better understanding of ridership numbers, especially as these communities pay a fraction of what Highland Village residents do for similar services.

The A Train's performance was another critical topic. According to a recent survey by the American Public Transportation Association (APTA), the A Train ranks sixth nationally in recovery among commuter rail services. Projections indicate that ridership could reach nearly 300,000 rides for the fiscal year 2025. This recovery is significant as it reflects a broader trend of increasing commuter rail usage post-pandemic. However, questions remain about when the A Train will return to pre-pandemic ridership levels, with ongoing enhancements and transit-oriented developments being planned to boost its appeal.

The meeting also touched on the A Train's current ridership statistics, revealing an average of approximately 1,200 riders per month at the Highland Village Station, with peaks during events like the State Fair. The data indicates that Saturdays are the busiest days for pedestrian and cyclist traffic, highlighting the station's role as a community hub.

In addition to ridership, the meeting emphasized the importance of multimodal connectivity along the A Train corridor, which features a 19-mile trail designed to link downtowns, schools, and parks across member cities. This commitment to enhancing transportation options reflects a broader strategy to improve mobility and accessibility for residents.

As the meeting concluded, participants acknowledged the need for further analysis of ridership metrics, particularly to better understand the demographics of Highland Village residents using these services. The discussions set the stage for future initiatives aimed at enhancing transportation infrastructure and services in the region, ensuring that Highland Village remains well-connected and responsive to the needs of its community.