Southern Dallas County IPTMA begins service; look for STAR Transit vehicles
STAR Transit has partnered with Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) to provide new transportation services in the Inland Port area of Southern Dallas County.
“This is another positive step forward for us in our commitment to provide affordable access to employment opportunities in this growing region,” said Tommy Henricks, executive director, STAR Transit.
The on-demand micro-transit service, known as "GoLink", as well as a new rider subsidy program provided by Uber called "Inland Port Rides", are now operating Monday through Friday, providing transportation during both day and night work shifts, Henricks pointed out.
Creating and funding the new services is the newly formed Inland Port Transportation Management Association (IPTMA). The IPTMA is a nonprofit membership organization designed to connect workers and businesses to transportation solutions. Members include private businesses, nonprofit organizations, city and county governments and local government agencies.
“Hundreds of employers who are providing more than 30,000 jobs in the area are enthusiastic about the expansion of the GoLink service into areas which are not currently served by public transit,” Henricks continued. “Through their memberships in IPTMA, businesses will supplement transportation costs for the riders. Interested riders should inquire about availability through their managers.”
The GoLink Inland Port Connect operated by STAR Transit is available from 5:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m., Monday - Friday, with UberPool providing additional service as needed. Inland Port Rides operated by Uber provides service between 8:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. Monday - Friday. During the initial promotional period, all job sites located within the Inland Port zone have access to the GoLink services. To access GoLink after Jan. 1, 2021 as well as the rider subsidy program, businesses must join the IPTMA. Trips should be scheduled through the DART GoPass app or by calling STAR Transit’s Call Center. GoLink fare is covered by a valid contactless DART fare when booked through the GoPass app or fares can be paid by using the GoPass Tap card or a credit/debit card in the GoPass app—or over the phone.