STAR Transit Continues to Expand; Adds Fixed Route and On Demand Services in DeSoto

With the support of the DeSoto City Council and the Regional Transportation Council, STAR Transit is now serving the city of DeSoto, continuing to support smaller communities south of Dallas. On April 23, STAR Transit will begin operating commuter Route 501. In addition, the on-demand, curb-to-curb service initiated earlier this month expands its hours, effective May 1. 

“We are pleased to offer DeSoto residents transit services that not only help them connect with where they want to go but also are convenient and affordable,” said Omega Hawkins, executive director. “STAR Transit is proud to be the fourth largest transit agency in Greater North Texas. Our mission is one of service.”  

Curtistene S. McCowan, city of DeSoto Mayor, is pleased this new program will contribute to the quality of life for her residents. “I am proud our city leadership has listened to both the citizens and business leaders and recognized the need to provide transportation services that provide access to jobs, school, medical appointments, social events or for numerous other purposes,” McCowan said.  “Enjoy the ride.”

Route 501 will serve the city of DeSoto, including area industrial parks with stops located at the Kohl’s e-Fulfillment Center and Wal-Mart Distribution.  The route also accesses Methodist Charlton Medical Center and the UNT Dallas Station on the DART Rail Blue Line.  Adding this service further connects DeSoto to cities located in the inland port area with transfer points at The Crossing Shopping Center and the UNT Dallas Station on the Hutchins Shuttle Route 401. 

Hours for Route 501 are Monday – Friday, 4:45 am – 9:36 am and 2:45 pm – 6:36 pm. The fare is $1.00 each way but citizens can ride free until May 31.  After May 31, qualified seniors, veterans and disabled riders may continue to ride the fixed route free.

Starting May 1, the on-demand service hours will be 6:00 am – 6:00 pm. Fares range from $1.00 and $12.00 and trips are calculated by the direct travel distance from origin to destination.  It does not include intercept pickups or drop-offs and measures distance based on fastest, most efficient street routing.  Area residents will be able to go anywhere in STAR Transit’s service area, which includes Kaufman County, Rockwall County, Seagoville, Balch Springs, Mesquite and Hutchins. Rides into Dallas County and Ellis County will be available for non-emergency medical appointments.  All trips are based on availability.