DART Seeks Public Feedback on Major Transit Overhaul – Your Voice Matters!

Potential Changes Could Reshape How Central Iowans Travel

The Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART) is considering sweeping changes to its bus system, and they want to hear from riders and residents before making final decisions. This proposed overhaul could impact routes, schedules, and service levels across the metro.

Key Proposed Changes:

• Route Restructuring: Potential consolidation or elimination of underperforming routes with low ridership.
• Increased Frequency: Boosting service on high-demand routes during peak hours.
• New Express Options: Exploring faster connections between major hubs.
• Service Hours: Possible adjustments to early morning/late-night availability.
• Accessibility Improvements: Upgrades to better serve riders with disabilities.

Why Now? The Push for Modernization

DART officials cite shifting work patterns post-pandemic and evolving travel needs as key drivers behind the proposed changes. "We're seeing different commute patterns than we did five years ago," explained DART CEO Elizabeth Presutti. "This is about aligning services with how people actually use transit today."

How to Weigh In

1. Public Meetings: Multiple in-person sessions scheduled throughout June.
2. Online Survey: Available at rideDART.org through July 15.
3. Email Feedback: Send comments to planning@rideDART.org.
4. Social Media: DART will monitor comments on their official channels.

Potential Impacts on Different Groups

While some riders might benefit from more frequent service, others could face longer walks to stops or complete loss of current routes. Seniors and low-income residents who rely heavily on transit have expressed particular concern about changes that might limit their mobility.

Controversial Aspects Emerging

Early discussions have revealed tension between the desire for efficient service and maintaining coverage for all neighborhoods. Some suburban areas might see reduced service to strengthen core urban routes, prompting debate about equity in transit access.

What's Next in the Process?

After collecting public input through mid-July, DART staff will analyze feedback and prepare recommendations for board consideration in August. If approved, changes would likely be implemented in phases beginning early 2025.

What Do You Think?

• Should DART prioritize efficiency over geographic coverage?
• Would you support reduced weekend service if it meant better weekday frequency?
• How important is late-night transit service for Des Moines' growth?
• Should businesses benefiting from transit help fund improvements?
• Is eliminating little-used routes the right move, or should all areas maintain some service?