Getting Around Plano: Walkability, Public Transit & Biking

Plano is primarily a car-dependent city, though areas like Downtown Plano and Legacy West provide some walkability with restaurants, shops, and offices in close proximity. Although sidewalks are extensive, spanning over 1,700 miles, the city's expansive layout means that many daily errands require a vehicle. For travelers staying in well-connected neighborhoods, walking might be convenient, but overall, a car or rideshare service is often needed for practicality.

Public transit in Plano is served by Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART), offering light rail and bus services to connect with Dallas and neighboring suburbs. However, the limited overall coverage and frequency of these services can be a constraint for travelers who rely on public transit to navigate the area or access specific destinations. While there are transit options, they might not be sufficient for efficient travel across the wider Dallas-Fort Worth area without additional planning.

For biking, Plano offers a decent infrastructure with over 150 miles of on-street bike routes and nearly 100 miles of shared-use paths. While the city provides sufficient routes for recreational cycling, traffic conditions and the absence of bike lanes in some areas may pose challenges for those using bikes for regular commuting. Biking in Plano is best suited for leisure and exercise rather than as a primary transportation mode, although e-bikes and e-scooters are permitted on city trails, adding flexibility for enthusiasts.