New DASH Route in Grand Rapids—What Riders Need to Know

Changes are coming for the Downtown Area Shuttle (DASH) in Grand Rapids. Here is what riders need to know.

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Grand Rapids Launches New DASH Route

Starting May 4, the City is rolling out a new version of the free shuttle, and the biggest thing you’ll notice is timing. Buses are set to arrive about every 8 minutes, which is an improvement from the current 15-minute wait.

City leaders say,

Buses will run nearly twice as often, trip times are shorter and the simplified one-directional loop is easier for riders to navigate.

But there is a tradeoff.

The Rapid via Facebook

The new route is smaller and more focused. Instead of covering as much ground, the updated DASH will loop through the busiest parts of downtown, hitting key spots like DeVos Place, Van Andel Arena, parking ramps, and the new Acrisure Amphitheater. It will also connect to the future Amway Soccer Stadium and other high-traffic areas.

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Here is the map:

City of Grand Rapids

The idea is to make it quicker and easier to hop on, get where you’re going, and move on with your day. DASH buses will continue to run seven days a week.

Why the DASH Route is Changing

So why the change? It really comes down to cost. The City of Grand Rapids says working with The Rapid was about to get significantly more expensive after a review of DASH’s operating costs within the broader transit system. That would have meant about a 28 percent increase, which just wasn’t sustainable long term. Instead of sticking with the current model and paying more, they chose to redesign it to keep costs manageable.

Mayor David LaGrand said in a release,

We want downtown Grand Rapids to be easier for everyone to get around. This updated DASH pilot route is a smart use of public resources and gives riders a better experience with more frequent service, shorter trips and a simpler route designed around what people need. It also will make the DASH much better as a part of transportation for our residents and visitors. More frequent service is what people value most, and lets us all blend riding with walking, or driving and parking.

One Year Pilot Program

This new setup is a one-year pilot program, so it’s not set in stone. It still needs final approval from City Commission and budget authorization. Leaders say they’ll be watching how people use it and asking for feedback before deciding what comes next.

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You can follow updates and learn more through the City of Grand Rapids Mobile GR Department website.

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Categories: Grand Rapids News