Des Moines City Council is making significant strides in enhancing public transportation services following a recent community engagement initiative. During the meeting on July 24, 2025, city officials outlined the progress of their transportation restructuring project, which aims to better meet the needs of local residents.

The council has entered the third phase of its project, which began with community outreach to identify key transportation needs. Residents prioritized several areas for improvement, including greater transit service, enhanced early morning and nighttime options, faster travel times, improved East-West connections, and increased weekend service, particularly on Saturdays. These insights were gathered through extensive engagement efforts, including outreach to over 200 organizations and direct interactions at bus stops and community events.

Feedback from the second phase of engagement revealed strong community support for the proposed transit network, with nearly two-thirds of respondents approving the initial draft. This approval was even higher among priority populations, including people of color, low-income residents, and individuals with disabilities. The council is currently soliciting further feedback on the revised service proposal, which will be finalized before presenting it to the King County Council in 2026, with an implementation target set for fall.

This initiative reflects the city’s commitment to improving public transportation and ensuring that it meets the diverse needs of its community. As the project progresses, city officials are optimistic about the positive impact these changes will have on residents' daily commutes and overall accessibility.