Des Moines Buses Get Major Overhaul

Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART) has rolled out a significant network redesign, its first in over a decade. The new system features 11 routes, shifting from peak-only commuter services to comprehensive all-day, all-week coverage on major streets. This overhaul aims to provide more reliable transit, with leaders stating that residents can reach 15% more destinations despite a 10% service reduction.

To encourage riders to try the revamped system, DART is offering free bus fares through the end of June 2026. The redesign involves restructuring schedules around timed transfers at Central Station for reduced waiting. While frequency on four 'core corridors' will be every 15 minutes, other routes will run every 30 minutes or hourly. Service hours are adjusted, running from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sundays.

The changes stem from evolving traffic patterns post-pandemic and ongoing DART funding challenges, with some suburban communities withdrawing from agreements. DART is exploring alternative revenue streams and has introduced weekday microtransit zones in Ankeny, Altoona, and Clive/Urbandale, expected to begin operating in late September 2026.