DART applies for transit hub funds
The Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART) has applied for $10 million in TIGER II federal grant money for a new transit hub to replace the Walnut Street transit mall. DART would have enough money to see the project through to completion if successful in its application. The $21.9 million transit hub is currently about half funded, having received $4 million in state I-JOBS money and $6.5 million in federal Bus and Bus Facility Livability grant money so far this year. With $10.5 million committed, construction of the project can begin in phases. Phase I will include the building with waiting areas, public restrooms, a customer service desk, bicycle storage, vendor space for a coffee shop or cafe, and administrative offices. Phase II will include four bus lanes, 15 bus bays, covered walkways, a canopy with photovoltaic panels, real-time bus arrival and departure information at each pedestrian platform, and public art. The new transit hub will be located south of Cherry Street between Sixth Avenue and Seventh Street.