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Yamhill County transit reports $41 million in grants since 2015; service hours may shrink in 2027
Summary
Transit Manager Cynthia Thompson told commissioners the system has received about $41 million in state and federal grants since 2015, the fleet has been upgraded and five new buses arrived in March 2026, but rising costs may force reductions to Dial‑A‑Ride hours and a provider RFP and possible facility purchase are upcoming.
Transit Manager Cynthia Thompson briefed the Board on March 26 that Yamhill County Transit has secured approximately $41,000,000 in state and federal grants since 2015 and has invested in fleet and signage improvements.
Thompson said the system operates roughly 30 buses, provides service in 10 cities plus to the Grand Ronde Tribe, employs about four county staff and contracts with Transdev (about 30–35 employees). She reported five new buses arrived in March 2026 and cited upgrades to the Durham Lane bus facility and transit center improvements.
Staff warned the Board that rising operational costs could require service reductions in FY 2026–27. Thompson said Dial‑A‑Ride service hours may be reduced and that Saturday service could be discontinued; she estimated total service hours might drop to about 25,000 by January 2027 if adjustments are required.
Thompson also told the Board the department will need to start an RFP process soon for service providers and that the county is considering the potential purchase of the Durham Lane facility. The Board discussed timelines for implementing fares and how any changes would affect the next year’s budget.
No formal procurement or budget actions were taken at the meeting; staff outlined next steps for public outreach on fare policy, RFP scheduling, and budget planning.
