Iowa lost 220 jobs in September as John Deere and Burlington Trailways announced layoffs, according to state and company filings.
John Deere reported on Sept. 17 that it would cut 141 employees, including 101 at a Waterloo plant and 40 at its Des Moines Works site in Ankeny. The company cited seasonal farming demand and fluctuating production schedules as the reason for the reductions.
The following day, Burlington Trailways said it would lay off 79 workers and end its intercity bus routes. Most of the cuts take place at the company’s West Burlington headquarters, with additional layoffs in Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, Burlington and Davenport. Rising insurance costs, unstable carrier partnerships and uncertainty around federal grants drove the decision.
The Iowa DOT said Jefferson Lines will take over most of the routes, starting service as soon as the day after Burlington ends operations, and will hire some of the displaced workers. In fiscal 2024, more than 67,000 passengers boarded Burlington Trailways buses in Iowa.