Curry Public Transit proposes service cuts amid funding delays and deficits

During the Curry County Board of Commissioners Business Meeting on September 3, 2025, significant concerns were raised regarding funding challenges for local transit services. A representative from Curry Public Transit reported a 42% deficit in funding due to delays in federal grant approvals, which are not expected to be available until March 2026. This situation has prompted the nonprofit to consider temporary service reductions to manage its budget.

The proposed cuts include eliminating Saturday service for the Bridal a Ride in Brookings and the Coastal Express, as well as reducing operating hours for the Dial a Ride service in Brookings and Gold Beach. Specifically, Brookings' Dial a Ride would operate from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM instead of the usual 8 AM to 4:30 PM, and Gold Beach's service would be limited to three days a week instead of four. Additionally, dispatch hours would be reduced by an hour and a half each day.

To mitigate the financial strain, the organization’s highest-paid employees have volunteered to defer 75% of their salaries, demonstrating a commitment to maintaining essential services. The representative emphasized the importance of these transit services to the community and expressed hope that the federal government would expedite the approval process for the pending grants.

The meeting highlighted a broader issue affecting transit services across Oregon, as many are grappling with similar funding challenges. The Curry County Board of Commissioners will continue to monitor the situation and explore solutions to ensure that vital transportation services remain available to residents.