DART's new network cuts jail-area bus service
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DART's regular bus service to the Polk County Jail is expected end in late June, 2026. Photo: Jason Clayworth/Axios
DART's redesigned bus network will no longer serve the area near the Polk County Jail when it launches in June.
Why it matters: It's a move transit leaders say reflects low ridership but leaves unresolved questions about how people get home after release or receive visitors.
Driving the news: DART recently provided Polk County with estimates for a special route between the jail and its Central Station in downtown, transit agency spokesperson Erin Hockman told Axios this week.
- The cost would range from about $166,000 to $568,000 annually, depending on the level of service.
Catch up quick: "Reimagine DART" was a process that took place over much of the past year and will be the transit agency's most significant overhaul in more than a decade when it launches this summer.
- It will eliminate more than a dozen routes to focus on providing more frequent service in high-traffic areas.
State of play: The jail at 1985 NE 51st Place is in an area with insufficient population density to support regular service under the redesigned network, CEO Amanda Wanke told the DART executive committee last month.
- The current route stops at the jail six times on weekdays and averages 13 daily boardings, she said.
Zoom in: The jail is a unique civic asset because of the nature of county activities at the site, DART said in its review for the county, which included conversations with Polk County Sheriff officials and the Bridges of Iowa, a drug and alcohol rehabilitation group.
- A regular bus route is preferred over taxi or other services because of challenges in finding available drivers and customer limitations with phones or apps, according to the review.
What they're saying: DART recognizes the jail's transportation needs, but the agency must focus its limited resources where ridership is highest, Wanke told the executive council last month.
- DART could continue service if the county or another group would pay for it, she said.
What's next: DART needs a decision by the end of January to include any jail service in its budget for the upcoming fiscal year, Wanke said.
- Polk County is reviewing options with a proposal likely to be considered in the coming weeks, spokesperson Jon Cahill tells Axios.