Rural Shuttle Pilot
Date Created:
July 2025
Budget:
LTD received a State of Oregon grant specifically designed to test new transportation options. The grant supports testing new service models, not permanent operations. The pilot project will begin Winter 2026 and concludes in June 2027.
Related Documents & Board Actions
Description
The Rural Lane County Shuttle Pilot will provide prescheduled origin-to-destination transportation for residents of Cottage Grove, Mohawk Valley, and Highway 36 between Mapleton and Deadwood. This is a pilot operating from Winter 2026 to June 30, 2027.
Purpose
In March of 2026 LTD is launching pilot project to provide one to two days of service per week in three different communities — South Lane, Highway 36 between Mapleton and Deadwood, and Mohawk Valley.
The areas served by this pilot were selected because they were identified in the Link-Lane Transit Development Plan as areas where the greatest number of community members will see improved access to public transit. This, in turn, creates and enhances connections to jobs, healthcare, education, and other essential resources.
Outcomes & Community Impact
This new grant-funded pilot expands the geographic reach of a previous pilot project, called the Metro Shuttle. The previous service provided prescheduled origin-to-destination transportation for rural South Lane residents five days per week.
The new Rural Shuttle Pilot offers a public transportation option to two communities that previously had no service — Highway 36 between Mapleton and Deadwood, and Mohawk Valley. This service will connect these residents to vital services such as medical care, prescription drugs, and healthy food.
Each community will have one to two days of service per week.
Timelines and Milestones
- Winter 2026 – Launch Service
- Summer 2026 – Pilot Evaluation
- June 30, 2027 – Pilot End Date
Tell Us What You Think
Lane Transit District wants to learn from you as it explores transportation options in rural communities. Your feedback on the Rural Shuttle Pilot will help shape future service — where shuttles go, when they operate, and how they can better meet local needs. Whether you ride regularly, have never tried the shuttle, or face challenges getting where you need to go, your input matters. Please take a moment to share your experiences and ideas so we can build a more connected, accessible transportation system for everyone in our rural areas. By participating, you will be entered to win a $50 VISA gift card.
