For Immediate Release
STAR Transit Launches Service Updates in Wilmer, Hutchins and Lancaster
Mayors Speak to the Partnership’s Importance to Communities.
(Sept.24, 2025, Terrell, TX) Effective Oct. 1, STAR Transit is initiating service updates in the cities of Hutchins, Lancaster and Wilmer, emphasizing the benefits of STARNow (same-day service) and Demand Response (Dial-A-Ride).
Fully supporting STAR Transit transportation options are the mayors, councils and community members of each city.
Mayor Clyde C. Hairston, City of Lancaster, said “This service ensures that our residents can get to work, keep their appointments, and that our students have every chance to chase their dreams. As an All-American City, Lancaster continues to be on the move—growing stronger, shining brighter, and connecting every resident to the opportunities that make us the Shining Star of Texas.”
“Our partnership with STAR Transit is not just about transportation; it’s about transforming lives. With the new services, we’re providing affordable, convenient, and desirable mobility options that connect our community to essential services and opportunities. Together, we’re enriching the quality of life for everyone in Hutchins!” said Hutchins Mayor Mario Vasquez.
“We are excited to welcome STAR Transit service to Wilmer. Reliable transportation is essential for connecting our residents to jobs, healthcare, education, and shopping across the region,” said Wilmer Mayor Sheila Petta.
“This partnership ensures Wilmer families, seniors, and businesses have more options and opportunities to thrive. We encourage our community to take advantage of this valuable service and experience the convenience it brings,” she continued.
Executive Director Tommy Henricks amplified the mayors’ comments, adding, “STAR Transit is continuing its purposeful expansion of mobility services. We are committed to meeting people’s transportation needs, supporting community connections, and boosting economic opportunities through innovative and sustainable solutions.”
“Anyone may ride with STAR Transit,” Henricks continued. “Destinations can include job locations, educational facilities, non-emergency medical appointments, senior centers, and career-training facilities. We can take our riders to run errands and to visit friends as well.”
Through the agency’s Dial-A-Ride service, riders can schedule trips one business day to two weeks in advance. The service offers convenient travel within the three cities, as well as connections to DeSoto, Duncanville, and Cedar Hill. Riders may use this service to book trips into Dallas for medical appointments. Trips are based on availability.
For same-day travel needs, STAR Transit offers STARNow, an on-demand service available within Wilmer, Hutchins, and Lancaster. STARNow also provides direct connections to DART’s UNT Dallas and Camp Wisdom stations, linking residents to the broader regional transit network.
“By connecting in this way, our riders have access to virtually every transit option in DART’s service area,” said Henricks.
To book a ride, users should download the STARNow app on the Apple App store or the Google Play store, or call (877) 631-5278. Se habla español. To learn more about STAR Transit routes and services, visit www.STARtransit.org.
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