Dallas drivers heading east on Mockingbird Lane near North Central Expressway will encounter lane closures beginning Saturday, September 19, as construction continues around the SMU/Mockingbird DART station. The work coincides with the opening week of the State Fair of Texas, so commuters and fair visitors alike need to plan ahead.
Lane closures and detours
According to DART’s construction notice, one eastbound lane will be closed around the clock from September 19 through September 30. An additional lane will be closed each weekday from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The station entrance and exit at East Mockingbird Lane and Worcola Road are already closed for the September 2–30 construction phase, and DART is directing traffic to Twin Sixties Drive. Worcola Road north of Twin Sixties Drive will remain closed through February 2027.
Impact on parking and station access
The SMU/Mockingbird station, located at 5465 E. Mockingbird Lane, serves the Red, Orange, and Blue rail lines. DART warns that parking will be limited while construction is underway, so drivers should allow extra time to find a spot or consider alternative stations. DART advises riders to follow the posted detour signs and to use Twin Sixties Drive for station access.
Additional service for State Fair visitors
To accommodate the influx of fairgoers, DART will operate the Orange Line between DFW Airport Station and Buckner Station on Saturdays and Sundays during the fair, as well as on October 12. This provides extra service through downtown Dallas and Fair Park. Riders should consult DART’s fair‑specific transfer instructions for the day of travel.
DART is also launching weekend State Fair Flyer buses from selected locations, offering a convenient shuttle option for those heading to the fairgrounds. The Green Line continues to serve Fair Park Station near the Parry Avenue entrance, and the MLK Jr. Station remains convenient for Gate 6 and the Cotton Bowl.
Where to find up‑to‑date schedules
DART has posted service updates for September 21, with route‑specific schedules available on its website and mobile app. For trips that involve both driving to a station and riding the train, commuters should review the station’s access notice and the specific schedule for their travel date. DART customer service can be reached at 214‑979‑1111 for additional assistance.
What this means for Dallas residents
While the lane closures may add a few minutes to morning commutes, the added train service and shuttle buses aim to ease overall traffic congestion during the State Fair. Residents are encouraged to consider public‑transit options, carpool, or adjust travel times where possible. By staying informed and planning ahead, Dallas commuters can navigate the construction period with minimal disruption.
Original reporting: The Dallas Express — read the source article.
