The University of Texas at Dallas launched a new bachelor’s degree in materials science and engineering this fall, according to a news release from the university. The major, which is offered in the Erik Jonsson School of Engineering and Computer Science, will allow students to learn across disciplines and explore specialties like microelectronics and energy.

The overview: Materials science is dedicated to understanding how materials like metals, silicon and biomaterials are made, as well as how they can be changed or used to develop new technologies, according to the release. The degree can be applied to careers in a wide range of industries, including semiconductor, manufacturing, aerospace, biomedical and energy fields.

Quote of note: “The future of engineering is interdisciplinary and flexible,” said Jonsson School Dean Stephanie Adams in the release. “This new degree program combines engineering with physics, chemistry and more to give students flexible foundations in how they will impact the world through their chosen career.”

Truck Yard is now open in Richardson. The bar and entertainment venue features free live music, an on-site kitchen and bar and a rotating selection of food trucks.

The details: Truck Yard Richardson’s first week will feature food trucks serving Cajun food, tacos, quesadillas and barbecue, per its website. The venue will also host Trucktoberfest on Sept. 12 with beer, German food, live music and events. Truck Yard took over the site formerly occupied by Old 75 Beer Garden, which closed in 2024.

• 740 S. Central Expressway, Richardson

Check out five upcoming and ongoing transportation projects around Dallas-Fort Worth, as previously reported by Community Impact.

1. Legacy Drive widening: Legacy Drive will be widened from Lebanon Road to Stonebrook Parkway in Frisco. Stonebrook Parkway will also be widened from Legacy Drive to 4th Army Drive as part of the project. The roadways will also be reconstructed along with the widening.
Update: The project is currently in the design phase. Construction is set to start later this year.

• Timeline: mid 2026-mid 2028
• Cost: $20 million
• Funding source: city of Frisco

2. East Virginia Street improvements: Reconstruction of East Virginia Street in McKinney will occur between Murray Street and Airport Drive. The project will include a new alignment and connection to Airport Drive and a new roundabout at the intersection of Virginia Street and Lively Hill Lane.
Update: Design work is 90% complete. Franchise utility coordination and right-of-way acquisitions are underway. The project is expected to bid in early 2027.

• Timeline: Early 2027-early 2029
• Cost: $15 million
• Funding source: city of McKinney

Dallas Area Rapid Transit agency received a $70 million grant from the Federal Transit Administration, according to a news release from the agency. DART plans to use the funds to purchase new light rail vehicles, per the release.

The overview: DART’s grant is part of $166 million that FTA distributed to three rail projects through its Rail Vehicle Replacement Grants program. DART said it will use the $70 million grant to replace 53 light rail vehicles that were originally purchased over 30 years ago.

Quote of note: “The grants generously awarded by the FTA support our Transform program and allow DART to reinvest in aging infrastructure to ensure safe, reliable, and innovative transit options for the coming decades,” said Trey Walker, interim executive vice president and chief development officer, in the release.