Cost of a Trip from Des Moines to West Des Moines: Navigating the Route Based on Current Gas Prices
Traveling from Des Moines to West Des Moines, just a few miles apart, might seem trivial. However, when you consider factors like gas prices, vehicle efficiency, and time, the cost of this journey can add up. This article examines various routes between the two cities, provides an estimate of the cost based on current gas prices, and helps you decide which route offers the most efficient travel experience.
The Overview of Des Moines and West Des Moines
Before diving into the routes and costs, let’s set the stage. Des Moines, the capital city of Iowa, is a regional hub for business, politics, and culture. Known for its vibrant downtown, parks, and restaurants, it offers an urban experience rich with activities. West Des Moines, located just to the west of Des Moines, is a rapidly growing suburb with family-friendly neighborhoods, shopping centers, and recreational areas.
The distance between these two cities varies slightly depending on the route taken, ranging from approximately 5 to 10 miles. This distance translates effectively to a drive time of about 10 to 20 minutes under normal traffic conditions.
Route Options
Travelers between Des Moines and West Des Moines have a few potential routes to choose from. Below are the main routes to consider:
Route 1: I-235 W to I-80 W
- Distance: Approximately 7 miles
- Estimated Time: 15 minutes
- Estimated Gas Cost: $0.73
This is the most direct route. Drivers would take I-235 W from downtown Des Moines, continuing onto I-80 W toward West Des Moines. The highway is well-maintained, with a speed limit of 65 mph, which allows drivers to make a smooth journey.
To estimate the gas cost, consider the average fuel economy of a typical passenger vehicle, which is about 25 miles per gallon (mpg). With the current national average gas price hovering around $3.50 per gallon, you would need about 0.28 gallons of gas for this trip:
[ \text = \text / \text \times \text = 7 \text / 25 \text \times 3.50 \approx 0.73 \text ]
Route 2: Grand Ave to 22nd St
- Distance: Approximately 8 miles
- Estimated Time: 20 minutes
- Estimated Gas Cost: $0.84
An alternative route involves taking Grand Ave west from Des Moines, turning onto 22nd St, and continuing until reaching the heart of West Des Moines. This path provides scenic views of the suburbs but can be slower due to stoplights and traffic signals.
Using the same fuel economy and gas price estimates, the gas cost for this route is roughly:
[ \text = 8 \text / 25 \text \times 3.50 \approx 0.84 \text ]
Route 3: Ingersoll Ave to 63rd St
- Distance: Approximately 9 miles
- Estimated Time: 25 minutes
- Estimated Gas Cost: $0.94
The third option centers on traveling via Ingersoll Ave to 63rd St, heading directly across the city. While this route provides access to several local shops and dining options, it can be congested during peak hours, leading to longer travel times.
Based on the same calculations for gas costs:
[ \text = 9 \text / 25 \text \times 3.50 \approx 0.94 \text ]
Summary of Costs
| Route | Distance | Estimated Gas Cost |
|---|---|---|
| I-235 W to I-80 W | 7 miles | $0.73 |
| Grand Ave to 22nd St | 8 miles | $0.84 |
| Ingersoll Ave to 63rd St | 9 miles | $0.94 |
Ideal Route
Considering the distances, gas costs, and travel times associated with each route, the I-235 W to I-80 W option emerges as the best choice. Not only does it provide the quickest route and the lowest travel cost, but it also avoids significant traffic disruptions that can occur on the local roads.
Recreational Considerations
While the primary focus of this article is on cost and efficiency, consider that your driving experience can also be enriched by exploring West Des Moines. The city features the Valley Junction area, which hosts various shops and eateries, possibly enhancing your trip's value, making it more than just a journey from one city to another.
Conclusion
In summary, a trip from Des Moines to West Des Moines can offer an easy escape along well-maintained routes. The I-235 W to I-80 W route, primarily due to its cost-efficiency, distance of 7 miles, and a driving time of around 15 minutes, stands out as the best option for making this quick journey affordable and enjoyable. As you embark on this trip, make sure to keep your vehicle fueled and ready to explore the delightful offerings in both cities. With a little planning, your travel between these two adjacent locales can be both efficient and pleasant.