The Iowa Transportation Commission has approved some changes to intercity bus routes in the state. Garrett Pedersen, with the Iowa Department of Transportation, says that includes a new service along Interstate 80.
The service, offered by Burlington Trailways, will run between Des Moines and Davenport with stops in Grinnell and Iowa City. Jefferson Lines will also be offering a new premium service for a current route through central Iowa on Interstate 35.
Pedersen explains, “The premium (service) will include deluxe motor coaches, newer released movies on the bus, complimentary snacks and drinking water.” Jeffereson Lines will also be providing a new service in 2008 from Mason City to Iowa City
Pedersen says the stops between Mason City and Iowa City include Charles City, Waverly, Waterloo/Cedar Falls, Urbana and Cedar Rapids. Federal money is providing a portion of the funding for the new services. In addition, the Iowa Transportation Commission approved $1.6 million. Pedersen says three new, 45-foot motor coaches will be purchased for the new services. Iowa will also receive an interactive driving simulator system to train and evaluate transit drivers.