Getting Around Dallas

By Car
Major highways provide quick access to the city. US 75 (North Central Expressway) and the Dallas North Tollway approach from the north, I-45 (South Central Expressway) from the southeast, I-20 and I-30 (R.L. Thornton Freeway) from the east, and I-30 from the west. I-35 runs northwest to southwest.

Street System
Because the streets of Dallas are not designed in the traditional grid pattern, it is wise to refer to a map when driving downtown. Major thoroughfares run from northwest to southeast and northeast to southwest. The principal street is Main Street, which runs southwest to northeast; other key streets include Elm Street, which is one way northeast.

The speed limit on most streets is 35 mph or as posted. Freeway limits range from 40 to 70 mph as posted. Rush hours are generally from 7:30 to 9 a.m. and from 4 to 6:30 p.m. Most signal lights are on the corners, but be alert for signals hanging in the center of intersections. Right turns are permitted on red; exceptions are marked.

Parking
Numerous garages and parking lots compensate for the virtual absence of on-street parking downtown. Rates range from 50c to $3 each half-hour or $3-$8 a day.

Rail Service
Amtrak's Union Station is at 400 S. Houston St. for train schedule and ticket information phone 214- 653-1101 or 800- 872-7245.

Buses
The Greyhound Lines Inc. bus station, 800- 231-2222, is at 205 S. Lamar St.; five other bus lines depart from this address.

Taxis
Taxis are metered. The initial charge is $2.25 plus $1.80 for the first mile; rates are then 40c for each additional quarter-mile, and $2 for each additional passenger. Yellow Cab, 214- 426-6262, is the main company serving the area.

Public Transport
DART operates public transit services to Dallas and 12 surrounding cities. The Dallas Area Rapid Transit System (DART) provides light-rail and bus service in the area, and also operates many high occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes. Bus and train Fares are $1.25 for local routes and $2.50 for premium routes. Exact change is required. Phone 214- 979-1111 for more information or visit the DART website.

The McKinney Avenue Trolley connects the historic West End district with downtown. Beginning near the Dallas Museum of Art, the trolley runs up McKinney Avenue to Blackburn Street and the DART Cityplace Station, and then back downtown. The free trolley runs Mon.-Fri. 7 a.m.-10 p.m., Sat.-Sun. 10-10. Phone 214- 855-0006.