Denton County Transit Authority reports safety improvements and ridership successes

The Denton City Council meeting on August 19, 2025, featured a comprehensive update from the Denton County Transportation Authority (DCTA), highlighting significant improvements in transit safety, service, and ridership that directly impact the community.

Paul Christina, the CEO of DCTA, presented a detailed report showcasing the agency's commitment to enhancing public transportation. Key metrics revealed a strong focus on safety, with the A Train achieving a perfect safety record so far this year. The GoZone service and bus operations showed improvements, with on-time performance for the elderly and disabled paratransit service reaching an impressive 99%. Christina emphasized the importance of these metrics, stating that they reflect the agency's dedication to providing reliable and safe transit options for residents.

Ridership trends were also a focal point of the discussion. Although overall ridership is down by 9.5% compared to last year, Christina noted that the DCTA had previously set an all-time record for ridership. The agency's strategic decision to optimize services by reallocating GoZone capacity has resulted in a 60% increase in bus ridership on the Connect routes, demonstrating that when services are frequent and reliable, residents are more likely to use them.

A major highlight of the meeting was the announcement of the A Train Enhancement Program, which aims to improve speed and efficiency on the rail line. This initiative includes curve and speed improvements, as well as plans to extend the A Train to Downtown Carrollton, providing a seamless connection to the DFW Airport. Christina described this extension as a potential game changer for commuters, allowing them to avoid the hassle of parking and shuttle services.

The meeting also touched on the DCTA's collaboration with the City of Lewisville on a transit-oriented development project near the Old Town Station, which aims to create a mixed-use space that enhances accessibility and community engagement. Christina expressed a desire to explore similar opportunities in Denton, particularly around the Downtown Denton Transit Center.

In response to community concerns about safety, DCTA has implemented measures to improve the safety of GoZone stops, including a review of high-risk locations and the installation of safety signage on vehicles. The agency is committed to ongoing communication with residents to address any issues that arise.

As the meeting concluded, Christina reiterated the DCTA's focus on data-driven decision-making and the importance of optimizing transit services to meet the needs of the community. The council's engagement with these developments reflects a shared commitment to enhancing public transportation and ensuring that it remains a viable option for all Denton residents.