A new DMV office opened in Coralville last week in what some officials claim was a sudden decision that limits community access.
The Eastdale Plaza DMV location in Iowa City closed July 26, less than a week after the state Department of Transportation announced they would move all services to 2303 Jones Blvd. in Coralville, on the north side of Interstate 80.
“The new location, between Theisen’s and Costco, was chosen after an extensive search for a space that could better accommodate the volume of customers in this area,” the state DOT said in a statement on July 21. “It will offer customers a larger, more spacious and modern facility to do business. We will offer the same services, just at a new location.”
Others have also posted in forums throughout the community, including Facebook and Reddit, with similar concerns of access.
Currently, the Coralville 5th Street bus route takes riders within about three-quarters of a mile of the new location on Jones Blvd., stopping at the intersection of Commerce Drive and Commercial Park.
Buses along this route arrive once an hour, pedestrians who walk from the stop to the DMV would have to contend with a hill and minimal sidewalks.
The Eastdale Plaza DMV location in Iowa City closed July 26, less than a week after the state Department of Transportation announced they would move all services to 2303 Jones Blvd. in Coralville, on the north side of Interstate 80.
“The new location, between Theisen’s and Costco, was chosen after an extensive search for a space that could better accommodate the volume of customers in this area,” the state DOT said in a statement on July 21. “It will offer customers a larger, more spacious and modern facility to do business. We will offer the same services, just at a new location.”
Local officials worried about limited bus access
Iowa City Councilor Shawn Harmsen expressed concerns to the Press-Citizen about how the DMV's move decreases access because current transit lines do not come close to the new facility.Others have also posted in forums throughout the community, including Facebook and Reddit, with similar concerns of access.
Currently, the Coralville 5th Street bus route takes riders within about three-quarters of a mile of the new location on Jones Blvd., stopping at the intersection of Commerce Drive and Commercial Park.
Buses along this route arrive once an hour, pedestrians who walk from the stop to the DMV would have to contend with a hill and minimal sidewalks.
Officials worry DMV's move to Coralville limits access despite added space
The new location is three-quarters of a mile from the nearest transit line, requiring those without a car to take the bus, then walk to the DMV.
www.press-citizen.com