Iowa Public Transit Association

05/27/2026

Saddle up—it’s almost Roadeo time! 🤠🚍

Be sure to register for the 2026 IPTA Annual Meeting & Training Conference at Prairie Meadows in Altoona (June 17–20) if you haven’t already—and join us for IPTA’s annual bus Roadeo on Saturday, June 20.

🔗 https://vist.ly/55pwz

05/21/2026

Iowa’s biggest transit event is just down the road. 🚧

Less than ONE MONTH until the 2026 Annual Meeting & Training Conference (+ROADEO).

Join us in Altoona on June 17-20, 2026
https://vist.ly/553gg

05/05/2026

Don't miss the 2026 IPTA Annual Meeting & Training Conference! (+ROADEO) 🚌

Transit agency employees from across the state are invited to attend this three-day conference, which provides training on a variety of topics benefiting transit leaders, managers, maintenance, drivers, administrators, and mobility coordinators.

🎟️ Join us in Altoona on June 17-20, 2026
https://vist.ly/534i6

🚏 Businesses within the transit industry are also invited to exhibit
https://vist.ly/534i7

04/21/2026

Join us for the 2026 IPTA Annual Meeting & Training Conference! 🚌

Transit agency employees from across the state are invited to attend this three-day conference, which provides training on a variety of topics benefiting transit leaders, managers, maintenance, drivers, administrators, and mobility coordinators.

Join us in Altoona on June 17-20, 2026 ⬇️
https://vist.ly/4z9ea

Businesses within the transit industry are also invited to exhibit ⬇️
https://vist.ly/4z9eb

04/20/2026

The countdown is on – all bus routes will change on June 14, 2026. We’re replacing our current routes with ten main routes that run more often, 7 days a week, on the busiest streets of the Des Moines metro.

Go to rideDART.com/newroutes today to see the map of our new bus network and learn about the changes coming.

Or make plans to attend an upcoming “Learn My Route” open house to get help planning your trip. A calendar of events is available on our website now.

04/01/2026

Get to know Darian Nagel-Gamm, Director of Transportation Services in Iowa City. 🚌🏙️

"As a cyclist and bike commuter for more than 20 years, I’ve always been deeply aware of how transportation systems influence people’s comfort and everyday mobility choices."

This experience guides Darian’s work in transit. “That perspective has shaped my commitment to creating communities where walking, biking, and transit feel safe, convenient, and accessible for everyone.”

Darian is energized by the future of transit, saying, “There’s growing recognition that transit is essential to strong, equitable, economically vibrant, and sustainable communities. Municipal transit systems are also one of the most effective tools we have to combat climate change, and our importance will only continue to expand. I’m excited about opportunities to modernize infrastructure, adopt more sustainable technologies, and evolve service so it is fast, affordable, reliable, and welcoming."

03/30/2026

03/30/2026

Over the next eight weeks, we are breaking down the biggest challenges facing public transit in our region and what they mean for the people who rely on HIRTA every day.

We are doing this because awareness matters. When communities understand how transit is funded and what is at risk, they are better equipped to protect it.

This week’s focus: Funding Gaps.

Many cities and counties do not provide the required local match. For every state or federal transit dollar HIRTA receives, a portion must be matched with local funding from cities, counties, or other partners. When that local match is not provided, HIRTA cannot access the full amount of available funding, which limits the level of service that can be sustained. When funding falls short, trips may be reduced or delayed. That can mean missed work shifts, missed medical appointments, or lost access to education.

If reliable transportation matters in your community, contact your city council or county supervisors. Attend budget workshops. Speak in support of transit funding.

Public transit stays strong when communities show up for it.

Learn more at www.ridehirta.com/advocate

03/30/2026

Advocating for public transit 🚍⬇️

IPTA Board Member Barb Neal spoke at the House RIIF Subcommittee Budget Hearing earlier this month, urging support for transit agencies facing rising costs and local match challenges tied to Iowa’s $77M RIIF award. ✅

03/19/2026

Get to know Kevin Pigors, Transit Administrator at Marshalltown Municipal Transit 🚌⬇️

Kevin's hands‑on background shapes everything he does. “Moving from the shop floor to administration gave me a unique perspective. I understand the day‑to‑day challenges firsthand, and that’s helped us make practical adjustments that support both staff and riders. ”

That perspective has guided Marshalltown through shifting ridership, workforce challenges, and evolving technology. “We’ve had to be flexible and creative. We’ve strengthened our maintenance and operations processes, improved communication, and made sure we’re using our resources efficiently.”

Looking ahead, Kevin is energized by what’s possible. “We’re exploring updated fleet technologies, new partnerships, and tools that help us respond better to rider needs.”

“What excites me most is the opportunity to shape a system that truly meets the needs of our community. Transit is changing, not just in terms of technology, but in how people use it and what they expect from it. Being part of that evolution is energizing. I’m proud to have grown from a mechanic to a transit administrator, and I’m motivated by the chance to build a system that’s reliable, efficient, and ready for the future.”

City of Marshalltown - Local Government

03/18/2026