Trinity Railway Express: A Dallas-Fort Worth Commuter Line

Last revised: September 6, 2024

The Trinity Railway Express (TRE) is a commuter rail line that connects the cities of Dallas and Fort Worth in Texas, providing a reliable and efficient mode of transportation for residents and visitors alike.

TRE spans 35 miles and serves a variety of passenger needs, including daily commutes, leisure travel, and special events. As of fiscal year 2023 the service hosted 1,163,600 riders and 4,200 weekday riders during the first quarter of 2024.

This guide provides all the pertinent information you need to make the most of your TRE experience.

Trinity Railway Express F59PHI #570 leads a westbound train at Irving, Texas on November 18, 2023. Doug Kroll photo.

History

TRE was established in December 1996, developed through a partnership between Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) and the Fort Worth Transportation Authority (now Trinity Metro).

It was introduced to alleviate traffic congestion, provide a reliable transit option, and promote economic growth within the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.

Route and Stations

Key Stations

1. **Union Station (Dallas)**: Centrally located in the heart of downtown Dallas, Union Station connects riders to other DART services, Amtrak, and Greyhound.

2. **Victory Station (Dallas)**: Near the American Airlines Center, offering easy access to sports and entertainment events.

3. **Medical/Market Center Station (Dallas)**: Serving the medical district and nearby commercial areas.

4. **Downtown Irving Heritage Crossing Station**: A vital stop for residents of Irving.

5. **West Irving Station**: Another convenient option for the Irving community.

6. **CentrePort/DFW Airport Station**: Connecting riders to Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport via shuttle service.

7. **Hurst/Bell Station**: Serving the Hurst and Bedford areas.

8. **Trinity Lakes Station**: A key stop for Trinity Lakes commuters.

9. **Fort Worth Central Station**: The western terminus, offering connections via TRE’s partner, Trinity Metro, and Amtrak.

10. **Fort Worth T&P Station**: Located near T&P Warehouse, with connections to Trinity Metro services.

Route Map

The TRE route runs from east to west, starting from Union Station in Dallas and ending at Fort Worth Central Station. The route map and schedules are accessible on the TRE website or via their mobile app.

Schedule and Frequency

The TRE operates Monday through Saturday. Although not available on Sundays (except for special events), service hours on other days are designed to accommodate both early morning and late evening commuters.

Weekday Schedule:

Typically, trains run from 4 AM (5 AM on Saturdays) to midnight (1 AM on Fridays). Trains are scheduled to arrive once every hour, or once every half-hour on weekdays during peak periods (4 to 9 AM and 2 to 7 PM).

### Key Note:

Schedules may vary during holidays and special events. Riders are encouraged to check the TRE website or mobile app for the most current schedule information.

Fares and Tickets

TRE offers various fare options to accommodate different passenger needs. Fares are determined by the number of zones traveled and the passenger category (adult, senior, youth, or child).

Types of Tickets:

1. **Single Ride Ticket**: Valid for a one-way trip within the designated fare zones.

2. **Day Pass**: Unlimited travel within the chosen fare zones for one calendar day.

3. **Monthly Pass**: Unlimited travel for one calendar month within the chosen fare zones.

4. **Annual Pass**: Offers a year of unlimited travel for frequent riders.

5. **Reduced Fare**: Available for youth ages 5–19, seniors 65 and older, people with disabilities, medicare card holders, and veterans with proof of status. All reduced fares require valid identification.

Where to Buy:

- **Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs)**: Located at all TRE stations.

- **Online**: Tickets can be purchased through the TRE website.

- **Mobile App**: The GoPass app allows for ticket purchase and display on mobile devices.

Price Range:

Fares range from a few dollars for a single ride to several hundred dollars for an annual pass. For the most current fare rates, consult the TRE website or the TRE mobile app.

Accessibility

TRE is committed to providing accessible services to all passengers, including those with disabilities. Key accessibility features include:

- **Wheelchair-Accessible Stations**: All stations are designed to be accessible, with ramps, elevators, and designated waiting areas.

- **Accessible Trains**: All trains are equipped with ramps or bridge plates for easy boarding and deboarding, as well as designated wheelchair spaces.

- **Assistance Services**: Passengers requiring assistance can contact TRE Customer Service in advance to arrange for additional support.

Onboard Amenities

Riding the TRE offers a comfortable and convenient experience with various amenities:

- **Wi-Fi**: Free Wi-Fi service available on select trains.

- **Seating**: Comfortable seating with ample legroom.

- **Restrooms**: Available on most trains for passenger convenience.

- **Bicycle Racks**: Accommodating cyclists, TRE provides racks for securing bicycles during travel.

- **Luggage Space**: Generous space for storing luggage, ideal for travelers heading to/from DFW Airport.

Connection Services

TRE integrates seamlessly with other transit services in the Dallas-Fort Worth area:

- **DART**: At Union Station and Victory Station, passengers can transfer to DART light rail and bus services.

- **Trinity Metro**: Connections available at Fort Worth T&P Station and Fort Worth Central Station.

- **DFW Airport**: Free shuttle service from CentrePort/DFW Airport Station to the airport terminals.

- **Amtrak**: Union Station (Dallas) and Fort Worth Central Station provide long-distance train connections.

- **Bus Services**: Various local and regional bus services can be accessed from key TRE stations.

Parking and Station Facilities

Most TRE stations provide parking facilities, which are free in many cases or require a nominal fee:

- **Parking**: Capacity varies by station, with spots available for daily and monthly parking.

- **Lockers**: Some stations offer bike lockers and secure storage options.

- **Shelters**: Covered waiting areas with seating to protect passengers from the elements.

- **Lighting and Security**: Well-lit stations with security measures, including surveillance cameras and emergency call boxes.

Tips For Rides

Before You Go

- **Plan Your Trip**: Use the TRE website or mobile app to plan your journey, including schedule, route, and fare information.

- **Buy Tickets in Advance**: Save time by purchasing tickets ahead of time through the app or website.

- **Check Service Alerts**: Stay informed of any service disruptions or changes.

At the Station:

- **Arrive Early**: Arriving at least 10-15 minutes before departure helps ensure a smooth boarding process.

- **Validate Your Ticket**: Make sure your ticket is valid for the entire duration of your trip.

Onboard:

- **Stay Seated**: Find a seat quickly and remain seated until the train arrives at your stop.

- **Keep Valuable Items Secure**: Monitor your personal belongings and keep them close.

- **Respect Fellow Passengers**: Maintain courteous behavior, keeping noise levels down and being mindful of others.

Contact Information

Customer Service:

- **Phone**: (214) 979-1111 (DART) or (817) 215-8600 (Trinity Metro)

- **Email**: feedback@trinityrailwayexpress.org

- **Website**: [Trinity Railway Express](http://www.trinityrailwayexpress.org)

- **Social Media**: Follow TRE on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for updates and information.

Conclusion

The Trinity Railway Express offers a valuable transportation service, linking the bustling cities of Dallas and Fort Worth.

Whether you’re commuting to work, heading to a sporting event, or traveling to the airport, TRE provides a comfortable, convenient, and efficient travel solution. Utilize this guide to navigate your journey on TRE with ease and confidence. Enjoy the ride!