Des Moines DART CEO Joins Minneapolis Metro Transit
Amanda Wanke, who has worked at DART for 10 years, including the past 2½ years as CEO, will join Metro Transit as deputy chief operating officer, operations administration.
During Amanda Wanke’s tenure as CEO, DART advanced several significant initiatives to strengthen transit service and align it with the needs, priorities, and budgets of its member communities.
DART
- Amanda Wanke, CEO of DART for 2½ years, will leave on May 9 to become deputy chief operating officer at Minneapolis’ Metro Transit.
- DART Commission Chair and Des Moines Mayor Connie Boesen praised Wanke for her leadership, collaborative style, and vision for transit development.
- During Wanke’s leadership, DART implemented several initiatives to enhance transit services and align with community needs.
*Summarized by AI
The Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART) announced that CEO Amanda Wanke accepted a leadership position with Minneapolis’ Metro Transit. Her final day with DART will be May 9.
Wanke, who has worked at DART for 10 years, including the past 2½ years as CEO, will join Metro Transit as deputy chief operating officer, operations administration.
“Amanda was the right leader for DART at an important time for transit in our region,” said DART Commission Chair and Des Moines Mayor Connie Boesen. “When the Commission asked her to serve as CEO, it was because of her deep understanding of the organization, her collaborative style, and her ability to bring people together around a shared vision for transit. We’re grateful for the strong team and momentum she helped build and wish her the very best.”
Impacting DART
During Wanke’s tenure as CEO, DART advanced several significant initiatives to strengthen transit service and align it with the needs, priorities, and budgets of its member communities.
The DART Commission adopted the Reimagine DART system redesign in December 2025 following extensive public input, establishing a new vision for transit service across Greater Des Moines. By taking steps to reduce operating expenses and align on transit priorities, the agency is in a strong financial position heading into next year.
DART also secured a $20 million federal grant to support construction of a new Operations & Maintenance Facility that will meet DART’s infrastructure needs for safer and more effective bus service.
“I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together in recent years — from the essential services we provide every day to the adoption of the system redesign that will shape the future of transit in our region,” said Wanke. “While it’s difficult to step away, the opportunity to return closer to family in Minnesota while continuing to grow as a transit leader felt like the right next step for me and my family."
The DART Commission will discuss next steps for leadership transition in the coming weeks.
Quick Answers
Amanda Wanke is the CEO of the Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART) who has accepted a new position with Minneapolis’ Metro Transit.
*Summarized by AI
More Management
What Transit-Oriented Development Means for the Future of Public Transportation
Once viewed primarily as transit operators, agencies are now leveraging land, partnerships, and long-term planning to boost ridership, expand housing, and strengthen communities.
Read More →
USDOT Announces $22 Million for Transit Innovation, Updates High-Speed Rail Rules
New federal transit funding will support safety, accessibility, and technology projects as updated rail regulations establish new noise standards for high-speed trains.
Read More →
Transportation Construction Coalition Unveils Infrastructure Case Studies Ahead of Federal Funding Deadline
The coalition noted the next surface transportation bill should provide sustained investment in highways and public transit to strengthen freight movement, improve safety, and support economic growth.
Read More →
People Movement: American Bus Association Extends Ferguson and More
METRO’s People Movement highlights the latest leadership changes, promotions, and personnel news across the public transit, motorcoach, and people mobility sectors.
Read More →
METRO Magazine Announces 2026 Innovative Solutions Awards Winners
Projects Recognized for Advancing Mobility Through Technology, Accessibility, Workforce Innovation, and Operational Excellence
Read More →
MBTA Rolls Out Pilot Programs to Cut Costs, Simplify Travel
Three new fare pilots — including unlimited two-hour transfers, reduced express bus fares, and free transit for eligible seniors — will launch this fall as Massachusetts extends popular commuter rail discounts through November.
Read More →
FTA Opens $610 Million Funding Opportunity for Bus Infrastructure Projects
The latest Notice of Funding Opportunity provides transit agencies with funding for bus facilities, fleet modernization, and low- and no-emission vehicles, with applications due September 21.
Read More →
Biz Briefs: STV teams with Amtrak, Motorcoach Operators Boost Fleet and Land Contracts, and More
From manufacturers and suppliers to transit agencies and motorcoach operators, these updates offer a snapshot of the projects, partnerships and business moves driving the industry forward.
Read More →
Massachusetts Approves $530M to Strengthen MBTA Operations, Infrastructure
The funding package targets operating stability, capital improvements, and fare affordability, offering a model for agencies navigating long-term funding challenges.
Read More →
LA Metro Marks Banner Year, Sets Ambitious Goals for New Fiscal Year
Incoming LA Metro Board Chair and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass joined outgoing Board Chair Fernando Dutra and LA Metro CEO Stephanie Wiggins to review accomplishments from fiscal year 2026, which included the opening of new rail extensions, advancement of major transit projects, expanded safety programs, and new rider amenities.
Read More →