University of Iowa CAMBUS will install improved bus stop signs across the campus this month. In addition to replacing worn signs, the signs feature a design overhaul to improve accessibility and system navigation.
“We hope the new signs make our system simpler and more intuitive to use for both frequent riders and visitors on campus,” says Mia Brunelli, Cambus manager.
The current Cambus bus stop signs were last updated in 2010 when Cambus, Iowa City Transit, and Coralville Transit launched the Bongo app for tracking bus routes in real-time. The department turned the need to replace outdated signs in poor condition into an opportunity to improve, simplify, and modernize them for a better rider experience including:
Use of route numbers that were implemented in 2020 to simplify route identification
Better alignment with the Transit app user experience
A dedicated real-time information sign
Updating contact information for all three transit systems
The new design refresh also incorporates more feedback and best practices from the 2020 Iowa City Area Transit Study.
During the design process, feedback was also collected from Cambus staff and the UI Parking and Transportation Charter Committee, Coralville Transit, and Iowa City Transit.
Cambus bus stop signs
The new Cambus stop signs include the following features:
Gold headings for stops served by Cambus only
The bus stop name in a larger font
Identifies routes serving the stop by route color and number
Shows on-demand routes serving the stop where applicable
Prominently displays contact and website information for Cambus
Additional signage at each stop features information for downloading the Transit app and getting real-time information without a smart device. The real-time information sign will be mounted at a lower height for easier readability.
To get real-time information without the Transit app, riders must call or text the numbers as displayed on the sign and enter the stop number.
Shared bus stop signs
Shared bus stops that are served by multiple public transit providers have a green heading. The sign also features:
The bus stop name
Transit agency headings with contact and website information
Route identifiers for each route that serves the stop under the appropriate agency heading
As a result of the 2020 Iowa City Area Transit Study, each transit system added a number identifier to each route. In recent years, each transit system has also designated specific colors for each route. The shared stops identify routes by each transit system’s unique color and number identifiers.
A real-time information sign will also be mounted at shared stops for riders to get automated bus information by mobile app, calling or texting. As of 2026, each transit system has separate numbers to call or text to get real-time bus information without a smart device.
Riders with questions about the new signs should contact the Cambus office at cambus-transit@uiowa.edu or by calling 319-335-8633.
