Gunnar Olson has joined the Des Moines Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) as communications manager for the agency, an intergovernmental operation that is heavily involved in the planning and financing of transportation projects and other services in the Des Moines area. Olson previously served in a similar capacity at the Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART), and as a reporter for The Des Moines Register. Olson may be reached at golson@dmampo.org or at 515-334-0075 ext. 210