Why is Bondurant leaving the DART system?

Bondurant is withdrawing from DART due to low ridership and a perceived lack of value for public transit in the community.

What changes are coming to the DART bus system?

The DART system is reducing the number of routes but increasing service frequency on key corridors, aiming for greater efficiency and accessibility.

Will paratransit service continue in Bondurant?

Bondurant is interested in potentially reinstating paratransit, a door-to-door service for people with disabilities, even after leaving the main DART system.

Home / Business and Economy / Bondurant Bolts DART, System Overhaul Approved

Bondurant Bolts DART, System Overhaul Approved

3 Dec

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Summary

Bondurant will withdraw from the DART system in July 2027.
DART's overhaul reduces routes but increases service frequency.
Low ridership cited as reason for Bondurant's departure.

Bondurant Bolts DART, System Overhaul Approved

The Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART) is set for a major system overhaul, including fewer routes but more frequent service. This significant revamp, the first since 2006, aims to create a more reliable, all-day transit system. However, DART faces challenges as Bondurant announced its withdrawal, effective July 2027, following similar departures from Pleasant Hill and Grimes. This exodus raises concerns among commissioners about the system's future viability.

Bondurant's decision stems from low ridership, with an estimated 12 riders currently using the bus service. Mayor Doug Elrod expressed that the community sees little value in public transit but is open to retaining paratransit services. DART leaders, like Mayor Russ Trimble, emphasized the critical need for member cities to stay united to preserve essential services, highlighting that 60% of riders use DART to get to work.

The approved overhaul will consolidate 27 fixed routes into 10 main routes, with four designated as "core corridors" offering 15-minute service. Service hours will adjust, running 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. on weekdays and Saturdays, and 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sundays. New microtransit zones for on-demand service are planned for Ankeny, Altoona, and Clive/Urbandale, beginning in fall 2026.