Passengers traveling to a public cooling center can board DART buses at no cost as dangerous heat and humidity continue across central Iowa.
By Hola Iowa
Residents who need relief from the extreme heat can ride DART buses free of charge to public cooling centers in the Des Moines area through Wednesday, July 29.
The temporary service began Saturday as Polk County activated its Extreme Temperature Plan in response to prolonged heat and humidity across central Iowa.
Free rides are available only to passengers traveling to a cooling center. Riders should identify a nearby location and the DART route that serves it before beginning their trip.
How to receive a free ride
Passengers should tell the bus driver when boarding that they are going to a cooling center. They should also notify the driver when they need to exit at the stop closest to their destination.
The free-fare option applies specifically to trips involving a public cooling center. DART is also providing free transportation to Central Iowa Shelter Services and Bethel Mission locations during the heat response.
Passengers can use DART’s online tools to locate a route or review additional information about the service on the official DART website.
Paratransit rides are also available
Riders who are approved for paratransit service may request transportation to a cooling shelter by calling DART Customer Service at 515-283-8100.
Customer service is available Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. The office is closed on Sundays.
Residents should confirm the operating hours of their selected cooling center before leaving. Because the free transportation is tied to cooling-center travel, passengers should also plan their route and identify the nearest bus stop in advance.
Related story: Extreme heat in Iowa could continue into Fourth of July weekend.
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