Fort Worth – Trinity Metro announced a tighter fiscal plan for fiscal year 2027, reducing its overall budget by more than 8% amid lingering economic uncertainty. The agency’s proposed $204.9 million budget reflects a $17.8 million decrease from the adopted 2026 budget of $222.3 million.
Despite the cut, the transit authority is earmarking an additional $3.3 million for the Trinity Railway Express (TRE) double‑track project, which will improve passenger service between Fort Worth and Dallas. The rail upgrade is supported through partnerships with the Regional Transportation Council, the Federal Transit Administration, Dallas Area Rapid Transit, and the two cities.
Mayor Parker highlights regional benefits
At a groundbreaking ceremony earlier this month, Mayor Mattie Parker praised the TRE improvements, saying they will “reinforce and double down on the assets we have on the ground.” She noted that the aging infrastructure is finally receiving the attention it needs.
Budget details and revenue outlook
Trinity Metro officials explained that personnel costs, transportation services, and equipment expenses continue to rise, but anticipated revenue will not offset those increases as it has in recent years. The agency projects $204.5 million in revenue, including $147.8 million from sales‑tax allocations, leaving a net operating margin of just $398,578 for fiscal 2027. Operating grants are expected to total $42.6 million.
Eva Williams, director of budgets and grants, acknowledged the “very small margin” between expenditures and revenue. “Our team is doing a lot with very little,” she told the board on Aug. 17.
Comparisons to 2026 performance
In fiscal 2026, Trinity Metro reported a net income of $7.3 million, largely due to higher sales‑tax allocations as consumer spending rose. The agency also spent less than projected on purchased services and supplies, contributing to the stronger financial position last year.
Looking ahead, the board will consider the 2027 operating budget at its September meeting, where officials hope to balance necessary service cuts with strategic investments in the region’s rail network.
Implications for riders
The double‑track project aims to reduce delays, increase train frequency, and provide a more reliable commuting option for the thousands who travel daily between Fort Worth and Dallas. By prioritizing this infrastructure, Trinity Metro aligns its limited resources with the community’s long‑term transportation needs.
For more information, contact senior business reporter Eric E. Garcia at [email protected].
Original reporting: Fort Worth Report — read the source article.
