To Our Valued HIRTA Communities:

As we close the book on 2024, I find myself reflecting on what an extraordinary year it has been. This reflection is not just about what we’ve achieved but about the people, connections, and stories that shaped our journey. To everyone who has supported HIRTA—our riders, team members, community partners, and advocates—thank you for being a part of this year’s success.

Every day, we remain driven by our mission to provide safe, reliable, and customer-focused transportation. Whether it is ensuring riders can attend vital appointments, helping workers reach their jobs, or offering a way for families to connect with loved ones, we see firsthand how transportation fosters independence and builds stronger communities. Every ride is a step toward a more inclusive and connected region.

It is the dedication and passion of the entire HIRTA team that make all of this possible. Their commitment to making a difference inspires me every day. The knowledge that our work helps people live their best lives fuels our drive to keep improving, no matter the challenges we face.

In the course of 2024, we achieved noteworthy milestones:

• Health Connector: HIRTA launched the Health Connector initiative making it easier for Dallas County residents to access healthcare. HIRTA's Health Connector, developed through a U.S. Department of Transportation pilot, bridges the gap between transportation and healthcare access with innovative features like kiosks, wayfinding apps, and a seamless booking system. Learn how this program is enhancing independence, reducing barriers, and setting a new standard for inclusive care: www.RideHIRTA.com/ITS4US.

• Expanded HIRTA’s volunteer program: In November 2021, HIRTA launched RSVP, which has now been transformed into HIRTA Helps. This past year, HIRTA Helps volunteers provided 773 trips to 69 different riders. These included trips to life-sustaining treatments, the grocery store, or simply getting people out and about in their community. The user-friendly www.HIRTAHelps.org now has the volunteer application online and allows volunteers to easily sign up for opportunities.

• Celebrated inclusivity: HIRTA was recognized with the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Workplace Excellence Award in the Medium Business category by the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce. The award celebrates organizations and individuals who have demonstrated outstanding commitment to creating inclusive environments within Central Iowa. HIRTA is honored to be among such distinguished awardees. To learn more about HIRTA’s diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts, visit www.RideHIRTA.com/DEI.

• Expanding Transportation Services: HIRTA was awarded a grant from the DOT’s ICAM Pilot Program, thanks to the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. This funding will enhance transportation across HIRTA's region by upgrading scheduling software, adding new hybrid vehicles, and funding a Mobility Manager position. These improvements will boost service reliability, expand capacity, and increase accessibility for all riders. Read more: www.RideHIRTA.com/icam-grant

• Supporting Communities: HIRTA provided a complimentary shuttle to the Perry Job Fair for the impending closure of the Tyson plant, ensuring access to employment opportunities. The shuttle made stops at key points around town, with door-to-door service made available for those who need it. We stood together as a community during this transition period.

• Emerging Leaders: Two HIRTA staff members attended CTAA's Emerging Leaders Academy in Washington D.C. After a week-long leadership course, participants took on the House and Senate, pushing for better Rural Match funding, improved NEPA processes and more. Learn more: www.RideHIRTA.com/HIRTA-ELA.

• Beyond the Bus: For the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic, HIRTA brought back our annual Beyond the Bus event in person. Beyond the Bus: Rural Mobility Solutions discussed strategies to address unique challenges rural communities face that can significantly impact access to essential services, economic opportunities, and overall quality of life. This conference brought together rural development experts, transportation planners, community leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders to share knowledge and experiences, explore innovative solutions, and collaborate on building more accessible, sustainable, and resilient transportation systems in rural areas. You can view the presentations by visiting www.RideHIRTA.com/BeyondTheBus.

• Service growth: HIRTA was able to accommodate 95% of trips requested! We’re happy we were able to help so many of our community members and hope to grow even more in 2025. Here are some stats from the last year:
• 115,471 rides
• 3,077 unique riders
• 46,400 hours of driving time
• 98.1% of app users rated their trip 5 stars

As we look ahead, we’re excited about what the future holds. In 2025, we aim to explore new technologies, expand our volunteer efforts, and lay the groundwork for introducing electric vehicles into our fleet. These steps are part of our ongoing effort to provide even better service while keeping sustainability and innovation at the forefront. If you are curious about our goals for the future, please explore our 2023-2033 Strategic Plan.

To our Board, whose steadfast support and forward-thinking ideas continue to guide us, thank you for believing in HIRTA’s mission and vision. Your resilience and commitment to progress make all the difference.

And to you, our riders and partners, thank you for trusting HIRTA to be part of your lives. It is a privilege to serve each of our communities, and we look forward to continuing this journey with you. May 2025 bring health, happiness, and new opportunities for all.

All my best,

Julia Castillo

Executive Director