Nunn Helps Secure $20 Million Federal Investment to Modernize DART Operations Facility

DES MOINES, IA - Representative Zach Nunn (IA-03) today applauded the award of $20 million from the Federal Transit Administration's (FTA) Bus and Bus Facilities Program to the Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART) to advance Phase 2 of its new Operations & Maintenance Facility.

The investment marks a major step forward for central Iowa's transportation infrastructure and will strengthen the reliability, safety, and long-term efficiency of the DART bus system serving Iowans across Polk County.

"This $20 million award is huge for central Iowa transportation and will make the DART bus system even more reliable and efficient for every Iowan who depends on it to get to work, school, or simply pick up groceries," said Rep. Nunn . "I am proud to work directly with our local communities to fight for DART and the 3.8 million annual rides provided. This is the largest of any comparable grant-to build a new facility and open up Des Moines for exciting developments in affordable living."

DART currently operates from a facility constructed in the 1970s. The aging building is undersized for modern buses, relies on outdated electrical and mechanical systems, faces recurring flooding risks, and is surrounded by development that leaves no room to expand-limiting both operational efficiency and future capacity.

Phase 1 of DART's new Operations & Maintenance Facility is already underway and expected to open in May 2026. The newly awarded federal funding will allow DART to move forward with Phase 2 of the project, which includes expanded bus storage capacity, administrative and operations offices, and upgraded bus wash, fueling, and body shop facilities.

"This will enable DART to continue the next phase of constructing the new facility, which will improve safety, support efficient operations and open up opportunity for redevelopment in downtown Des Moines," said DART Commission Chair and Des Moines Mayor Connie Boesen .

"DART is committed to maximizing taxpayer dollars in providing a service that allows people to get to vital destinations and drives our economy," said DART CEO Amanda Wanke . "To do that efficiently, we need a safe and modern space for our team to prepare vehicles for the road. We thank our local and federal leaders for helping us move forward on the most effective solution for meeting our long-term infrastructure needs."

Rep. Nunn submitted a formal letter of support urging full and fair consideration of DART's application and worked directly with leadership at the Federal Transit Administration to convey the urgent need for expanded federal transit resources for Iowa-including critical investments like Phase 2 of DART's Operations & Maintenance Facility project. The $20 million award was made available through the Fiscal Year 2026 Consolidated Appropriations Act and is part of nearly $390 million awarded to 34 projects across 19 states through the FTA's Bus and Bus Facilities Program.

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