Jefferson, Crook counties forming public transportation advisory panels

(Update: Adding Crook County information)

With the passage of House Bill 2017, Keep Oregon Moving, the state Legislature has committed to both the improvement and enhancement of transportation services through the Statewide Transportation Improvement Fund (“STIF”). For Central Oregon, this means the opportunity to enhance public transportation services to access jobs and community services, improve mobility, and relieve congestion.

Jefferson and Crook counties will create STIF advisory committees to help shape future public transportation investments. Advisory committee members will help determine which public transportation projects will best serve the community and advise Jefferson County regarding opportunities to coordinate with other local and regional transportation programs and services.

Kathy Marsten, Jefferson County clerk, said, “The STIF advisory committee plays an important role in the planning process. We hope to find committee members that bring their professional talents and passion for transit to guide this historic public transportation investment.”

Jeff Wilson, Crook County Counsel and STIF Program Coordinator, noted, “The Crook County STIF advisory committee will ensure that new public transportation investments ultimately benefit the communities they serve. We look forward to establishing a new advisory committee that will help prioritize public transportation projects in Crook County and throughout our region.”

Those interested in serving on the advisory committee are encouraged to apply using an online application form available in English and Spanish on the Jefferson County website (https://www.jeffco.net/cc/page/statewide-transportation-improvement-fund) and also on the Central Oregon Intergovernmental Council website (https://coic2.org/STIF). COIC was delegated by Jefferson and Crook counties to help administer their STIF program.

Those interested in serving on the Crook County advisory committee are encouraged to apply using an online application form available in both English and Spanish on the Crook County website (https://co.crook.or.us/Departments/Administration/StatewideTransportationImprovementFund/tabid/2704/Default.aspx) and also on the Central Oregon Intergovernmental Council (COIC) website (https://coic2.org/transportation/stif).

To be eligible to serve, members must be knowledgeable about the public transportation needs of residents or employees located within or traveling to or from their respective county. The deadline for applications is December 21 at 5:00 PM.