DART Launches Major Bus Network Redesign in Des Moines
The Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART) officially implemented a comprehensive redesign of its bus network on Sunday, March 2, 2025, aimed at increasing service frequency and expanding transit access across the metro area. The agency is offering fare-free rides on all fixed-route buses through June 30, 2025, to encourage ridership during the transition.
How the New DART Network Changes Service
DART’s updated system focuses on high-frequency transit along major corridors rather than broad geographic coverage. According to the official DART service announcement, the redesigned network utilizes 11 primary routes. Buses on four key corridors now operate on 15-minute intervals, while most other routes run every 30 minutes throughout the day and week. This shift prioritizes high-density areas and major job centers to maximize utility for the approximately 60% of DART riders who rely on the system for commuting.
Impact on Accessibility and Employment
The network redesign is projected to increase public transit access for approximately 22,000 additional residents in the Greater Des Moines area. Data provided by DART indicates that the average resident can now reach 3,700 more jobs within a 45-minute commute on weekdays, representing a 15% increase in job accessibility. On Sundays, the impact is more significant, with an 89% increase in reachable jobs, totaling 13,200 additional employment opportunities accessible via public transit.
Why DART Redesigned the System
The “Reimagine DART” initiative began in 2024 to address long-term budget constraints and ensure the sustainability of regional transit for the next decade. The process involved extensive public engagement, including over 2,300 survey responses collected throughout 2025. DART leadership, including former CEO Amanda Wanke, framed the redesign as a response to a “tipping point” for the agency, requiring a strategic shift to better align with the community’s 20-year growth projections and infrastructure needs.
What Riders Need to Know
- Fare-Free Period: All fixed-route bus travel is free from March 2, 2025, through June 30, 2025.
- Specialized Services: DART Paratransit and On Demand services are not included in the fare-free promotion and will continue to operate under existing fare structures.
- Route Maps: Updated route maps and schedule information are available on the DART website.
- Efficiency Gains: By consolidating stops and focusing on main corridors, DART expects shorter travel times for the majority of riders.
Key Statistics: Pre- vs. Post-Redesign
| Metric | Impact of Redesign |
|---|---|
| Weekday Job Access | 15% increase |
| Sunday Job Access | 89% increase |
| High-Frequency Corridors | 15-minute headway |
The transition to the new network marks a definitive pivot toward a more streamlined, frequency-based service model. As DART monitors performance metrics through the remainder of 2025, the agency will evaluate whether these changes meet the stated goals of fiscal sustainability and improved rider mobility.