HIRTA Public Transit

05/25/2026

REMINDER:

HIRTA will be closed on today in observance of Memorial Day. We hope everyone has a safe and meaningful holiday as we take time to remember and honor those who served our country.

1 (877) 686-0029 | [email protected]

05/21/2026

HIRTA will be closed on Monday, May 25th in observance of Memorial Day, as we remember and honor those who gave their lives in service to our country. We’re grateful for their courage and sacrifice.

1 (877) 686-0029 | [email protected]

05/21/2026

UPDATE AS OF 5/21:
HIRTA's phone lines have successfully been restored! We thank everyone for their patience.
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HIRTA’s server will be down for maintenance on May 21st at 3:00pm as we upgrade and repair our phone system. The office will be closed during this time. Please schedule rides ahead of time. We appreciate your patience and understanding.

1 (877) 686-0029 | [email protected]

05/20/2026

HIRTA helped organize and host a Transportation Safety Institute (TSI) course on drug and alcohol program compliance for transit professionals. The training focused on helping participants evaluate and strengthen their agency’s drug and alcohol testing programs in alignment with federal requirements and best practices.

Thank you to all who participated and contributed to the discussion!

05/19/2026

UPDATE as of 6:00pm on 5/21:
HIRTA's phone lines have successfully been restored! We thank everyone for their patience.

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UPDATE as of 10:45am on 5/19/26:
HIRTA’s phone lines are down indefinitely due to storm-related damage and may remain out for several days. We are actively working to replace and restore service as quickly as possible.

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HIRTA’s phone lines are currently down. We will provide an update here once service has been restored.

In the meantime, to schedule, change, or cancel a ride, please email [email protected] or use the HIRTA On Demand App.

We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your patience.

05/13/2026

Over the past seven weeks, we have shared key challenges facing public transit in our region. Funding gaps. Vehicle needs. Rising costs. Workforce pressures. Growing demand.

These are real issues. But they also have real solutions.

Public transit connects Iowans to healthcare, employment, education, and community. Protecting that access requires informed communities and engaged leaders.

If HIRTA, or any public transportation, has made a difference in your life, now is the time to speak up. Contact local officials. Attend meetings. Share your story. If you have any questions, comments, or would like to learn more, please reach out to us.

Together, we can keep Iowa moving forward.

Learn more at www.ridehirta.com/advocate

05/13/2026

UPDATE:
The issue has been resolved and the phone lines are back! We thank you for your patience.

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🚨 Important Notice 🚨

HIRTA's phone lines are currently down. We will update here once the issue is resolved.

In the meantime, if you need to schedule, change, or cancel a ride, you can email [email protected] or use the HIRTA On Demand App.

We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding and patience.

05/11/2026

Thank you to the Greater Madison County Community Foundation for supporting rural public transportation with a grant toward a replacement vehicle for HIRTA. Partnerships like this help ensure residents can continue accessing healthcare, employment, groceries, and other essential services throughout the region.

We appreciate the continued support for mobility and independence in our communities!

HIRTA Public Transit received a $7,500.00 check to assist with the acquisition of a replacement vehicle. The check was presented by GMCCF Board Member Erin Harman (left) and accepted by HIRTA CEO Julia Castilla (center right) and local drivers Angela Cason (center left) and Austin Hill (right).

05/06/2026

Behind every ride is a friendly HIRTA driver.

This week’s focus: Supporting the Transit Workforce.

HIRTA is fortunate to have a dedicated team of drivers and staff who care deeply about the people they serve. Many riders know their drivers by name and rely on them every day.

The challenge is making sure these essential workers can continue earning wages that reflect the value of the work they do. Limited funding makes it harder for transit systems across the country to keep pay competitive, even when staff are committed to staying.

Support policies and funding decisions that allow transit agencies to offer strong wages and benefits. Recognize the drivers and staff who help keep your community connected.

A strong workforce keeps the wheels turning.

Learn more at www.ridehirta.com/advocate

04/29/2026

More people are riding HIRTA because they need it.

This week’s focus: Funding Falling Behind Ridership.

Ridership continues to grow, but major state and federal funding sources remain limited. These funds require a local match, meaning communities must contribute a portion of the cost. When demand increases without those local matching dollars, it becomes harder to maintain access to service.

Reach out to state and federal representatives and ask them to maintain or increase transit funding. Share your personal experience with HIRTA. Encourage local leaders to consider sustainable options like a transit levy.

Growing demand deserves responsive funding.

Learn more at www.ridehirta.com/advocate

04/27/2026

We're grateful for the support of United Way of Story County and their continued dedication to ensure transportation is never a barrier!

✨ Community Impact Grant Recipient: HIRTA Public Transit ✨
HIRTA received $7,500 for their Health Connector Program, ensuring that transportation is never a barrier to well-being. This funding provides a reliable link for our neighbors to reach vital healthcare appointments, making a healthier Story County possible for everyone.