Posted on December, 2 2025
Beginning this summer, the new network will improve travel times and access to transit
Today, the DART Commission approved the first major redesign of bus routes and services in more than a decade. DART’s new network will increase transit access and speed up travel times for most transit trips while reducing service by 10% to limit property tax growth.
“This has been a highly collaborative process that reflects residents’ strong preference for more frequent service along our busiest streets,” said DART Commission Chair and Des Moines Mayor Connie Boesen. “The new network increases the value of public transit in our region, which will drive our local economies and communities forward.”
“The new network is a win-win for our communities, helping many of our riders get to where they need to go faster while also reducing costs,” said Amanda Wanke, DART CEO. “Our willingness to embrace innovation, adaptability and bold thinking through Reimagine DART has put us on a solid foundation as we look to the future.”
The new bus network features:
- 10 main bus routes running more often all day, seven days a week along the busiest streets in the region.
- Faster, more reliable service due to wider bus stop spacing and easier transfers at DART Central Station.
- Three microtransit zones providing on-demand service in suburban areas.
When comparing DART’s new network to the existing:
- The average Greater Des Moines resident can access 15% more destinations within 45 minutes on weekdays and 89% on Sundays using public transit.
- 7% more residents have access to public transit on weekdays.
- Residents have access to significantly more weekend transit service.
Today, approximately 60% of riders use DART to get to work. These rides are essential to the region’s economy – staffing hospitals, schools, grocery stores, and other businesses residents depend on and enjoy. Many DART riders have lower income, have a disability or do not have a valid driver’s license or car in their household, which means DART is often their only option to travel.
The new network was shaped by input from elected leaders, riders and residents. This year, more than 2,300 survey responses informed what to prioritize in the new bus network. Most survey respondents were riders who use DART several days a week.
The new bus routes will take effect in June 2026 and microtransit zones in fall 2026. Riders can begin planning trips in the new network this spring when schedules are published on ridedart.com.