News

For Immediate Release

TERRELL, TX — 10/14/2026 — STAR Transit is offering free, round-trip rides to local polling places during the upcoming local elections.  All registered voters within the STAR Transit service area are eligible to ride free.  The service area includes Kaufman County, Rockwall County, Seagoville, Balch Springs, Mesquite, DeSoto, Cedar Hill, Duncanville, Hutchins, Lancaster and Wilmer.

Free rides to vote will be available weekdays during early voting, October 19–30. Service will also be available on Saturday, October 24 from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., in Balch Springs, Mesquite, and Terrell. Free rides on Election Day will be available Tuesday, November 3.

All STAR Transit services, including Demand Response, Fixed Routes, and STARNow are eligible for this offer.  To ride free, tell the bus operator or reservationist you are riding to and from the polls, or use the code Vote1126 on the STARNow App.  Rides are subject to availability and must be in the STAR Transit service area or STARNow zone.  Free rides are only available to voters traveling to and from the polls.

To schedule a free ride to vote, call STAR Transit at least 30 minutes in advance of the desired trip.  Scheduling agents are available from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday at (877) 631-5278.  To book a STARNow ride, download the STARNow app free from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.  Se habla español.

For more information on voting locations, visit:

• Dallas County – www.DallasCountyVotes.org
• Kaufman County – www.KaufmanCounty.net/434/Current-Election-Information
• Rockwall County – www.RockwallVotes.com

“Every election, we hear from riders who want to vote but do not have a way to get there,” said Tommy Henricks, STAR Transit Executive Director.  “Offering free rides to the polls is a simple way we can help our neighbors take part, whether they vote early or on November 3.  We are proud to support our community in making all voices heard.”

###

About STAR Transit

Founded in 1988, STAR Transit is the fourth-largest transit agency in the North Central Texas region—and the largest, not funded by sales tax. As a political subdivision of the State of Texas, STAR Transit provides over 260,000 rides annually using a fleet of 55 ADA-compliant vehicles.

Revenue is generated through federal and state grants, along with local partnerships with cities, counties, and businesses. STAR Transit offers safe, affordable, and reliable transportation to the general public, seniors, veterans, and individuals with disabilities—providing access to jobs, healthcare, personal services, retail, entertainment, and more.

With over 80 employees, the agency is headquartered in Terrell, TX. For more information, visit www.STARtransit.org or call 877-631-5278.

 

For Immediate Release

TERRELL, Texas — July 23, 2026 — STAR Transit is kicking off its annual Rider Appreciation Week, running Monday, July 27 through Saturday, August 1.

In celebration throughout the week, STAR Transit’s Rider Appreciation Squad will board vehicles across the service area, surprising unsuspecting riders with giveaways to show appreciation for their continued support.

“Our riders are the reason we do this work,” says Tommy Henricks, STAR Transit’s executive director.  “Rider Appreciation Week is a small way of saying thank you for the trust they place in us.”

“I always enjoy watching our Rider Appreciation Squad surprise someone on their commute,” said Kim Britton, STAR Transit’s deputy executive director.  “We want all our riders to know how much they mean to us.”

Riders across Kaufman County, Rockwall County, Balch Springs, Cedar Hill, DeSoto, Duncanville, Hutchins, Lancaster, Mesquite, Seagoville, and Wilmer are eligible for the Rider Appreciation Week promotion.

Get Social! 

Riders are encouraged to join the fun by sharing selfies on social media throughout the week using the hashtag #STAppreciatesMe. STAR Transit will also feature photos on its Facebook (facebook.com/startransit) and Instagram (instagram.com/startransit_official) pages.

About STAR Transit.  Founded in 1988, STAR Transit is the fourth-largest transit agency in the North Central Texas region—and the largest, not funded by sales tax. As a political subdivision of the State of Texas, STAR Transit provides over 235,000 rides annually using a fleet of 55 ADA-compliant vehicles.

Revenue is generated through federal and state grants, along with local partnerships with cities, counties, and businesses. STAR Transit offers safe, affordable, and reliable transportation to the general public, seniors, veterans, and individuals with disabilities—providing access to jobs, healthcare, personal services, retail, entertainment, and more.

With over 80 employees, the agency is headquartered in Terrell, TX. For more information, visit www.STARtransit.org or call 877-631-5278.

###

For Immediate Release

TERRELL, TX — 4/30/2026 — Longtime local public transit leader Omega Hawkins has received the Distinguished Service Award from the Texas Transit Association in partnership with the Texas Department of Transportation. The award recognizes individuals who have significantly advanced public transportation in Texas.

Hawkins devoted more than four decades to expanding access to transit across North Central Texas, particularly for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and rural communities.

Hawkins began her career in 1974 as a bus driver for the Dallas County Nutrition Program. In 1979, she launched a senior transportation and meals program in Seagoville, which later expanded into Kaufman County Senior Citizens Services and Kaufman Area Rural Transit (KART).

Under Hawkins’ leadership, KART grew into STAR Transit, expanding service into multiple counties and introducing demand-response transit across the region. She also led the agency through major funding changes following the 2010 census, securing continued local support and maintaining service without relying on tax revenue. She retired as Executive Director in 2019 and continued serving on the STAR Transit Board through 2024. Today, the agency provides more than 235,000 rides annually.

“Omega’s impact on public transit in Texas is significant,” said Tommy Henricks, STAR Transit Executive Director. “Her leadership built a system that continues to serve communities across the region every day.”

The Distinguished Service Award is one of the highest honors presented by TTA and TxDOT, recognizing long-term leadership and impact on public transportation.

###

About STAR Transit

Founded in 1988, STAR Transit is the fourth-largest transit agency in the North Central Texas region—and the largest not funded by sales tax. As a political subdivision of the State of Texas, STAR Transit provides over 235,000 rides annually using a fleet of 55 ADA-compliant vehicles.

Revenue is generated through federal and state grants, along with local partnerships with cities, counties, and businesses. STAR Transit offers safe, affordable, and reliable transportation to the general public, seniors, veterans, and individuals with disabilities—providing access to jobs, healthcare, personal services, retail, entertainment, and more.

With over 80 employees, the agency is headquartered in Terrell, TX. For more information, visit www.STARtransit.org.

For Immediate Release

TERRELL, TX — 4/20/2026 — STAR Transit is offering free, round-trip rides to local polling places during the upcoming local elections.  All registered voters within the STAR Transit service area are eligible to ride free.  The service area includes Kaufman County, Rockwall County, Seagoville, Balch Springs, Mesquite, DeSoto, Cedar Hill, Duncanville, Hutchins, Lancaster and Wilmer.

Free rides to vote will be available weekdays during early voting, April 20–28. Service will also be available on Saturday, April 25, in Balch Springs, Mesquite, and Terrell. On Election Day, May 2, free rides will be available in Balch Springs, Mesquite, Terrell from 8:00 am – 5:00 pm and in DeSoto 7:00 am – 7:00 pm.

All STAR Transit services, including Demand Response, Fixed Routes, and STARNow are eligible for this offer.  To ride free, tell the bus operator or reservationist you are riding to and from the polls, or use the code Vote526 on the STARNow App.  Rides are subject to availability and must be in the STAR Transit service area or STARNow zone.  Free rides are only available to voters traveling to and from the polls.

To schedule a free ride to vote, call STAR Transit at least 30 minutes in advance of the desired trip.  Scheduling agents are available from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday at (877) 631-5278.  To book a STARNow ride, download the STARNow app free from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.  Se habla español.

For more information on voting locations, visit:

• Dallas County – www.DallasCountyVotes.org
• Kaufman County – www.KaufmanCounty.net/434/Current-Election-Information
• Rockwall County – www.RockwallVotes.com

“We’re proud to support our community and offer free rides to vote,” said Tommy Henricks, STAR Transit Executive Director.  “Voting is one of the most important ways to have your voice heard, and we’re here to help get you to the polls—no fare required.”

###

About STAR Transit

Founded in 1988, STAR Transit is the fourth-largest transit agency in the North Central Texas region—and the largest not funded by sales tax. As a political subdivision of the State of Texas, STAR Transit provides over 235,000 rides annually using a fleet of 55 ADA-compliant vehicles.

Revenue is generated through federal and state grants, along with local partnerships with cities, counties, and businesses. STAR Transit offers safe, affordable, and reliable transportation to the general public, seniors, veterans, and individuals with disabilities—providing access to jobs, healthcare, personal services, retail, entertainment, and more.

With over 80 employees, the agency is headquartered in Terrell, TX. For more information, visit www.STARtransit.org

 

 

For Immediate Release

TERRELL, Texas — April 6, 2026 — STAR Transit is inviting residents across its service area to share their thoughts on local transportation needs through a new community-wide survey designed to guide future transit improvements.

The survey is part of STAR Transit’s ongoing commitment to listening, learning, and improving service to better meet the needs of the communities it serves.

“Transit plays an important role in connecting people to jobs, healthcare, education, and daily activities,” said Tommy Henricks, STAR Transit Executive Director. “We want to hear directly from our riders and from those who may not currently use transit. Every perspective helps us better understand what’s working and where we can improve.”

The survey asks about travel habits, awareness of STAR Transit services, and priorities for the future. Feedback will help to identify opportunities to enhance service, improve accessibility, and better serve communities across the region.

The survey is easy to access:

• Scan QR codes posted in STAR Transit vehicles and at community locations
• Visit https://bit.ly/star-survey-2026
• Call (877) 631-5278 to request it in paper copy or another format

The survey takes approximately 5 to 10 minutes to complete and will remain open through May. Responses are confidential and will be combined with others to identify overall trends and community priorities.

STAR Transit encourages everyone to participate, whether they currently use transit services or not.

“Your feedback helps shape the future of transportation in your community,” Henricks added. “We’re committed to being a responsive, community-focused organization, and this input is a key in that process.

 About STAR Transit.  STAR Transit is the fourth-largest transit agency in North Central Texas—and the largest operating without sales tax funding. Instead, it relies on federal and state grants, along with local partnerships with cities, counties, and businesses. STAR Transit improves quality of life through safe, affordable, and reliable mobility for the general public, 60+, veterans, and individuals with disabilities, ensuring access to jobs, healthcare, shopping, entertainment, and more. With a team of over 80 employees, the agency facilitates more than 215,000 rides annually. STAR Transit is headquartered in Terrell, TX.  For more information, visit STARtransit.org.

###

For Immediate Release

TERRELL, Texas — March 23, 2026 — STAR Transit has launched its Guiding Star Mentor Program in collaboration with the International Transportation Learning Center (ITLC), a national nonprofit organization based in Silver Spring, Maryland. ITLC is dedicated to advancing frontline workforce development across critical industry sectors, including transportation, infrastructure, and advanced manufacturing.

In 2021, the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) selected ITLC to operate the Transit Workforce Center (TWC)—the agency’s first-ever national technical assistance center focused on transit workforce development. Through TWC, ITLC supports public transportation providers and their partners with frontline workforce recruitment, hiring, retention, training, and career advancement strategies.

“The Guiding Star Mentor Program represents our commitment to investing in our people,” said STAR Transit’s executive director Tommy Henricks. “Through this collaboration with the Transit Workforce Center, we are strengthening training, mentorship, and career pathways that will help our workforce grow and succeed.”

The Guiding Star Mentor Program is led by transportation director Antonio Harris. Three regional mentors—who are current STAR Transit operators—have been selected to support and mentor new hires, helping them transition successfully into their roles.

According to ITLC, creating, supporting, and retaining a strong and skilled workforce requires high-quality training programs, particularly in occupations impacted by rapidly changing technologies and evolving workforce needs. Effective mentorship programs contribute to positive outcomes, including improved recruitment, retention, and opportunities for employees to advance through internal career ladders.

“At the end of the day, our success depends on the strength of our workforce,” Henricks added. “The Guiding Star Mentor Program reflects our long-term commitment to supporting our employees while delivering safe, reliable, and forward-thinking transit services.”

About STAR Transit.  STAR Transit is the fourth-largest transit agency in North Central Texas—and the largest operating without sales tax funding. Instead, it relies on federal and state grants, along with local partnerships with cities, counties, and businesses. STAR Transit provides safe, affordable, and convenient transportation for the general public, 60+, veterans, and individuals with disabilities, ensuring access to jobs, healthcare, shopping, entertainment, and more. With a team of over 85 employees, the agency facilitates more than 215,000 rides annually. STAR Transit is headquarters in Terrell, TX.  For more information, visit STARtransit.org.

For Immediate Release

TERRELL, TX — February 16, 2026 — Dr. Carrie Forney Gordon, STAR Transit Board Chair, and Tartisha Hill, board vice-chair, stepped into their new leadership positions in January with ever-increasing enthusiasm for expanding safe, affordable and convenient transportation for the public.

STAR Transit’s Board of Directors is composed of seven At-Large members and seven At-Large alternates. Collectively, they are responsible for the organization and its services throughout the service area, assuring a regional perspective on local needs.

Dr. Gordon was appointed to the board in 2015, following the completion of her third consecutive term as Mayor of Balch Springs. As Mayor, she consistently championed public transit as a catalyst for improved quality of life, economic opportunity, and workforce access. Her advocacy helped establish STAR Transit as a trusted mobility partner for cities seeking public transit solutions.

She strongly believes that mobility aligns transportation investment with healthcare access, employment, education, and community wellness. These principles have been reinforced through her leadership as Immediate Past Chair of the Best Southwest Partnership, Immediate Past Chair of Foremost Family Health Centers, and as a member of Leadership Southwest (Class of 2024).

“As I assume the role of Chair of STAR Transit, I do so with deep gratitude for the leaders who laid the foundation and for the continued collaboration with key agencies to address transportation disparities in our region,” said Dr. Gordon. “For more than a decade, I have witnessed firsthand the power of mobility to transform lives and strengthen communities, particularly in the Best Southwest and throughout North Central Texas. This moment is not about transition, but the continuation of service, equity, and collaboration. Together, we will continue advancing transportation solutions that connect people to opportunity and move our region forward.”

Vice Chair Hill, a Balch Springs resident, is a Community Health Worker for the State of Texas, employed by Baylor Scott & White. She notes, “There are a few socioeconomic areas in Dallas/Fort Worth that are less fortunate. Those are the cities and counties we serve. I believe everyone should have the same advantages in life, whether you are rich or poor. I like to see people push through obstacles, and I want to help those who are less fortunate become the best that they can be.” As Balch Springs Place 2 council member, she remains at the forefront, advocating for affordable public transit for all.

Elizabeth Rodriguez-Ross has been elected as STAR Transit’s Board Secretary. A Mesquite resident, she currently serves as the City Council’s Deputy Mayor Pro Tem.  In addition Maranda Auzenne was elected to Board Member, Place 2.  She has served as the Place 2 Alternate for the last two years.

The board also recognizes the retirement of long-time member Jerry Dittman, who concludes 10 years of dedicated service, including the past five years as Board Chair. Throughout his tenure, Dittman played an instrumental role in guiding the organization’s growth and strengthening regional partnerships. His steady leadership and unwavering commitment to public transportation have left a lasting impact on the communities STAR Transit serves.

Board members are elected to a four-year term, with no term limits. When a vacancy occurs, STAR Transit notifies the chief elected official of each county and municipality within the service area, inviting nominations for At-Large representatives.

###

About STAR Transit.  STAR Transit is the fourth-largest transit agency in North Central Texas—and the largest operating without sales tax funding. Instead, it relies on federal and state grants, along with local partnerships with cities, counties, and businesses. STAR Transit provides safe, affordable, and convenient transportation for the public, 60+, veterans, and individuals with disabilities, ensuring access to jobs, healthcare, shopping, entertainment, and more. With a team of over 100 employees, the agency facilitates more than 230,000 rides annually. STAR Transit is headquartered in Terrell, TX.  For more information, visit STARtransit.org.

For Immediate Release

STAR Transit is offering free, round-trip rides to local polling places for early voting and Election Day for the upcoming primary elections. All registered voters who reside within the STAR Transit service area are eligible to participate. The service area includes Kaufman County, Rockwall County, Seagoville, Balch Springs, Mesquite, DeSoto, Cedar Hill, Duncanville, Hutchins, Lancaster, and Wilmer.

Free early voting rides will be available on weekdays from Tuesday, February 17, through Friday, February 27.

Saturday service for rides to the polls will be offered on February 21 in Balch Springs, Mesquite, and Terrell only.

Election Day rides will be provided on Tuesday, March 3.

All STAR Transit services qualify for this offer, including Demand Response, Fixed Routes, and STARNow. To ride free, passengers should either tell the bus operator or reservationist they are traveling to and from the polls or use the code Vote2026 on the STARNow app. Rides are subject to availability and must be within the STAR Transit service area or STARNow zone, and the free‑ride program applies only to voters traveling to and from polling locations.

To schedule a free ride, passengers should call STAR Transit at least 30 minutes before their desired trip. Scheduling agents are available Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., at (877) 631‑5278. Riders who prefer to book through STARNow can download the STARNow app for free from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.

Se habla español.

For more information on voting locations, visit:

• Dallas County – www.DallasCountyVotes.org
• Kaufman County – www.KaufmanCounty.net/434/Current-Election-Information
• Rockwall County – www.RockwallVotes.com

“We’re proud to support our community and offer free rides to vote,” said Tommy Henricks, STAR Transit Executive Director.  “Voting is one of the most important ways to have your voice heard, and we’re here to help get you to the polls—no fare required.”

###

About STAR Transit

Founded in 1988, STAR Transit is the fourth-largest transit agency in the North Central Texas region—and the largest, not funded by sales tax. As a political subdivision of the State of Texas, STAR Transit provides over 235,000 rides annually using a fleet of 55 ADA-compliant vehicles.

Revenue is generated through federal and state grants, along with local partnerships with cities, counties, and businesses. STAR Transit offers safe, affordable, and convenient transportation to the general public, seniors, veterans, and individuals with disabilities—providing access to jobs, healthcare, personal services, retail, entertainment, and more.

With over 100 employees, the agency is headquartered in Terrell, TX. For more information, visit www.STARtransit.org

 

 

 

For Immediate Release

STAR Transit announces Employee and Driver of the Year 

TERRELL, Texas — November 24, 2025 — Seven employees were recently honored during STAR Transit’s Annual Bus Roadeo and Employee Awards Luncheon. Ted Crouch was named the 2025 Employee of the Year, and TD Youngblood received the 2025 Driver of the Year award.

Nominees for Driver of the Year included Youngblood, Nola Martin, Unterrius Collier, and Joe Rauls. Youngblood, who has been with the agency for over 9 years, currently drives in Kaufman County.

“TD has been a steadfast and dependable member of our team for over nine years. His commitment to safety, customer service, and professionalism sets the bar high for all of us”, Antonio Harris, STAR Transit transportation director, said.  “We’re grateful for the positivity and dedication he brings to STAR Transit every day.”

As the recipient of Driver of the Year, Youngblood received $1,500.

Nominees for Employee of the Year included Crouch, Jasmine Wynn, Chelsie Wheatley, and Nicole Blanton.  Crouch has been with the agency for three years and works as a fleet assistant.

“Ted’s exceptional work ethic, dedication, and positive outlook have stood out throughout the year,” said Tommy Henricks, STAR Transit executive director. “This honor is a testament to his outstanding contributions and the value he adds to our organization.”

As the recipient of Employee of the Year, Crouch received $1,000.

STAR Transit launched the Employee of the Year and Driver of the Year initiative in September 2015.

In addition to the top honors, the following employees also received recognition:

• Driver Rookie of the Year: Unterrius Collier
• Extra Mile Award: Kenneth Pierce
• Outstanding Service: Bradley Danyluk
• Outstanding Customer Service: Esther Carrillo
• Omega Hawkins Award: Eleanor Luttrell

“These programs allow us to honor the remarkable employees who go above and beyond for our riders. Congratulations to each of our recipients,” Henricks said.

About STAR Transit.  STAR Transit is the fourth-largest transit agency in North Central Texas—and the largest operating without sales tax funding. Instead, it relies on federal and state grants, along with local partnerships with cities, counties, and businesses. STAR Transit provides safe, affordable, and convenient transportation for the general public, 60+, veterans, and individuals with disabilities, ensuring access to jobs, healthcare, shopping, entertainment, and more. With a team of over 100 employees, the agency facilitates more than 215,000 rides annually. STAR Transit is headquarters in Terrell, TX.  For more information, visit STARtransit.org.

For Immediate Release

TERRELL, TX — 10/20/2025 — STAR Transit is offering free, round-trip rides to local polling places for early and election day voting for the upcoming elections.  All registered voters within the STAR Transit service area are eligible to ride free.  The service area includes Kaufman County, Rockwall County, Seagoville, Balch Springs, Mesquite, DeSoto, Cedar Hill, Duncanville, Hutchins, Lancaster and Wilmer.

Early voting free rides will be available weekdays from Monday, October 20 through Friday, October 31, and on Saturday, October 25 in Balch Springs, Mesquite, and Terrell only.  Free rides on Election Day will be available Tuesday, November 4.

All STAR Transit services, including Demand Response, Fixed Routes, and STARNow are eligible for this offer.  To ride free, tell the bus operator or reservationist you are riding to and from the polls, or use the code Vote2025 on the STARNow App.  Rides are subject to availability and must be in the STAR Transit service area or STARNow zone.  Free rides are only available to voters traveling to and from the polls.

To schedule a free ride to vote, call STAR Transit at least 30 minutes in advance of the desired trip.  Scheduling agents are available from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday at (877) 631-5278.  To book a STARNow ride, download the STARNow app free from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.  Se habla español.

For more information on voting locations, visit:

• Dallas County – www.DallasCountyVotes.org
• Kaufman County – www.KaufmanCounty.net/434/Current-Election-Information
• Rockwall County – www.RockwallVotes.com

“We’re proud to support our community and offer free rides to vote,” said Tommy Henricks, STAR Transit Executive Director.  “Voting is one of the most important ways to have your voice heard, and we’re here to help get you to the polls—no fare required.”

###

About STAR Transit

Founded in 1988, STAR Transit is the fourth-largest transit agency in the North Central Texas region—and the largest not funded by sales tax. As a political subdivision of the State of Texas, STAR Transit provides over 215,000 rides annually using a fleet of 55 ADA-compliant vehicles.

Revenue is generated through federal and state grants, along with local partnerships with cities, counties, and businesses. STAR Transit offers safe, affordable, and convenient transportation to the general public, seniors, veterans, and individuals with disabilities—providing access to jobs, healthcare, personal services, retail, entertainment, and more.

With over 100 employees, the agency is headquartered in Terrell, TX. For more information, visit www.STARtransit.org