The Heart of Iowa Regional Transit Agency (HIRTA) has increased county input recently.

A local advisory board in Marion County of 12-15 people is providing guidance for the future of local services. Sarah Constable with HIRTA tells KNIA/KRLS News the board has been a source of ideas to improve rides in Marion County. A regional board is located in Polk County, but HIRTA began to feel that more local voices were needed to improve service quality in rural areas. Recently the advisory board developed a transportation action plan that included ideas for expanded hours and greater access to medical services. Constable says the local advisory boards will play an even greater role in decision making in 2017.