Southern Oregon Transit

By Kaden A. Brown

Southern Oregon’s rural residents face a growing transportation crisis. For people living in towns like Roseburg, Sutherlin, Cottage Grove, and even the outskirts of Eugene, accessing jobs, healthcare, and education is often a major challenge due to limited or disconnected public transportation options.

As a 15-year-old student and aspiring policy advocate from Lane County, I’ve spent months researching and developing proposals that could make real change. I’m proud to share a local pilot solution that is affordable, realistic, and designed to serve the people who need it most.

The Problem

Transportation in rural areas of Southern Oregon is unreliable and often nonexistent for those who cannot afford a car or are unable to drive. A trip from Roseburg to Eugene, for example, can require multiple transfers across disconnected services like U-Trans and the LTD Connector. There is no single, direct, low-cost public transportation option linking these towns. Rideshare services like Uber or Lyft cost upwards of $60 to $100 one-way, which is far beyond the reach of many low-income and elderly residents.

This lack of service isolates entire communities and puts jobs, medical care, colleges, and essential services out of reach for many. The most affected are working families, students, veterans, seniors, and individuals with disabilities.

The Proposal

Title: Southern Oregon Rural Micro transit Pilot Duration: 1 to 2 years Service Area: Roseburg, Sutherlin, Cottage Grove, Eugene Goal: Restore regional mobility through an on-demand, shared transportation service

What is Microtransit?

Microtransit is a flexible public transportation model that uses vans or minibuses to provide rides that are scheduled on-demand through a phone call, website, or app. Instead of fixed bus routes, vehicles adjust their routes each day based on who needs a ride and where. This system is already working in places like Wilsonville, Lincoln County, and Albany.

Who This Will Help

This program is designed to serve:

• Workers commuting between towns without access to affordable transportation

• Students attending the University of Oregon and Umpqua Community College

• Seniors and veterans who need regular medical appointments

• Rural residents who are cost-burdened by gas, insurance, or car repairs

Additionally, it offers a climate-friendly alternative to single-occupancy vehicles, reducing emissions in rural communities.

Technology and Operations

The pilot would use software platforms such as Via, Spare Labs, or RideCo. These services allow riders to schedule pickups, track ride times, and give feedback. Vehicles would be ADA-compliant and operate 6 to 7 days per week, focusing on peak school and work commute times.

Estimated Annual Budget

Category	Cost Estimate
Vehicle leasing and driver pay	$250,000 to $400,000
Scheduling technology	$50,000
Community outreach and surveys	$15,000 to $25,000
Administrative costs	$25,000
Total	Up to $500,000

Funding Sources

To keep this project lean and tax-neutral, potential funding could include:

• Federal Transit Administration Section 5311 (for rural areas)

• Oregon’s Statewide Transportation Improvement Fund

• Contributions from employers like PeaceHealth or local colleges

• Regional grants and private-public matching programs

Implementation Plan

Phase 1: Community Needs AssessmentConduct local surveys in Roseburg, Sutherlin, and Cottage Grove. Partner with employers, schools, and hospitals to identify common travel patterns.

Phase 2: Service DesignLease vehicles, choose a software provider, and train drivers. Design service zones, determine fare pricing, and prepare outreach materials.

Phase 3: LaunchStart service operations, monitor ridership data, track cost per ride, and maintain accessibility for seniors and people with disabilities.

Phase 4: Midpoint ReviewEvaluate performance after 6 to 9 months. Adjust coverage or scheduling as needed based on rider feedback and service data.

Phase 5: Final EvaluationAt the end of the first year or second, assess whether to expand, revise, or end the pilot. Use collected data to apply for extended funding or state support.

Why It Matters

This pilot program offers a low-cost, high-impact solution to one of the region’s most persistent issues. It increases independence, economic access, and community health while reducing the financial pressure and isolation many rural families face.

Most importantly, it reflects the goals of Oregon’s statewide transportation strategy: improving rural access, embracing innovation, and reducing our environmental footprint.

I believe this plan can bring real value to our district without relying on major infrastructure or tax increases. I hope our elected officials and regional partners will give it serious consideration.