TriMet Announces Major Service Cuts Starting This Fall

TriMet will implement a 10 percent service cut over the next two years, starting this fall, due to a $300 million budget gap. The initial cuts will focus on reducing bus frequency during early mornings and late nights, with potential elimination of certain bus and MAX train lines. General Manager Sam Desue Jr. stated that these reductions aim to avoid more severe cuts in the future. Despite efforts to secure funding, the Oregon Legislature failed to pass a necessary transportation funding package, worsening the agency's financial crisis.

Governor Tina Kotek announced a special session in August to propose raising the STIF payroll tax to 0. 2 percent, though this is significantly lower than what transit agencies deem necessary. TriMet has noted that rising inflation and increased budget allocations for safety and security contribute to its financial strain. The agency plans to make further reductions effective in March, possibly eliminating low-ridership bus lines altogether. These developments highlight the precarious state of public transportation funding in Oregon.