Posted on April, 27 2026
DART riders are encouraged to begin planning how they will travel in the new bus network that will launch on June 14, 2026. Route schedules and an interactive map of bus stop locations are now available here.
Our team is ready to help riders learn the new routes and plan their trips through one-on-one trip planning support at 12 open houses in May and June.
What’s Changing
The new network reflects extensive input from riders and the community through Reimagine DART on what matters most in public transit – and those priorities are reflected in the changes ahead.
On June 14, all current bus routes will be replaced with 11 routes, with most running more often all day, seven days a week, along the busiest streets in the Des Moines metro.
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Four corridors will have 15-minute bus service.
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Bus stops will be spaced farther apart – about every 3-4 blocks – to provide faster, more reliable service.
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Transfers at DART Central Station will be timed to speed up travel for many trips.
Service hours will also be reduced by two hours on weekdays and an hour on Saturdays to help align total service hours with what member communities can afford and to limit property tax growth.
New DART On Demand zones will launch in late September, increasing transit access in three suburban areas.
The changes to the network will mean that:
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The average Greater Des Moines resident will be able to reach 3,700 more jobs within 45 minutes on weekdays using public transit, a 15% increase. They will be able to reach 13,200 more jobs on Sundays, an 89% increase.
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About 22,000 more residents will have access to public transit, a 5% increase.
Rider Support
Over the next several weeks, riders and the public can expect these additional updates:
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DART is replacing all bus stop signs throughout its network. New bus signs will provide clearer information about each bus route. Stops being removed will be marked.
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A new rideDART.com website will launch by early June, making information more accessible and easier to use on mobile devices.
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All bus routes will be free to ride from June 14-30, giving riders the opportunity to practice their trips as they adjust to the new network. DART On Demand and Paratransit are not included.
“We know this is a big change for the thousands of riders who depend on us to get to work, school and essential services,” said Erin Hockman, DART Chief Administrative and Strategy Officer. “With June 14 just around the corner, DART staff is looking forward to helping riders learn the new routes and ensure they have help and resources to make this transition as smooth as possible.”