Redmond Flex Routes A and B will end December 4 due to low ridership
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Cascades East Transit announced Thursday that it will discontinue its Redmond Flex Routes A and B bus service on Friday, Dec. 4, due to persistently low ridership. The transit agency reached the decision after expanded operating hours and targeted community outreach efforts failed to increase passenger numbers.
As transportation needs evolve, the transit provider is partnering with the City of Redmond to evaluate alternative service models. Officials are seeking direct input from local residents and community members to help guide future transit planning and better align local resources.
Andrea Wasilew, outreach and engagement administrator for Cascades East Transit, noted that the route closure will not diminish the agency’s focus on the region.
“While the Flex routes have not achieved the ridership needed to sustain operations, our commitment to serving Redmond remains strong,” Wasilew said. “We recognize the importance of reliable, accessible transportation and look forward to working with the City and community to explore solutions that better connect residents to jobs, health care, education and other essential destinations.”
Despite the discontinuation of the two flex routes, CET will maintain several other transit options for Redmond residents. The agency will continue operating Redmond Dial-A-Ride, Community Connector routes, vanpool programs and the Veteran Medical Rides Program.
To assist with future service planning, CET is conducting a public survey for local residents, businesses and community organizations. The survey seeks to gather feedback on local travel patterns, service gaps, transportation barriers and priority areas as officials evaluate potential service adjustments.
Cascades East Transit serves Central Oregon as the regional public transit provider across Deschutes, Crook and Jefferson counties, as well as the Warm Springs community. The agency operates fixed and flex-route buses, recreational shuttles, dial-a-ride services and paratransit options.
Riders seeking assistance with alternative transit routes, Dial-A-Ride reservations or questions about the Dec. 4 discontinuation can reach CET’s Customer Service Center by phone at 541-385-8680 or online through its website.
The public survey will remain open online through Dec. 31. CET officials said the survey results and resident feedback will directly inform upcoming service evaluations and future transportation models in Redmond.
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