Cascades East Transit expanding region’s Dial-A-Ride service, plans paratransit pilot in Deschutes River Woods
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Cascades East Transit, operated by the Central Oregon Intergovernmental Council, announced Friday that it is expanding its curb-to-curb Dial-A-Ride service areas across the region starting March 30, to boost access to flexible transportation for residents.
CET also said it will launch a pilot paratransit Dial-A-Ride service in Deschutes River Woods, starting May 4, bringing new transportation options to the community just south of Bend.
According to COIC, the Dial-A-Ride expansion "significantly improves access to flexible, on-demand transit options in both rural and urban communities, particularly for seniors, people with disabilities, and residents living outside traditional fixed bus routes."
“Transportation is a lifeline for many residents in Central Oregon,” said Bob Townsend, transit director at CET. “This expansion helps ensure more people can reach health care, jobs, education and essential services, no matter where they live in the region.”
Expanded Rural Dial-A-Ride
CET’s Rural Dial-A-Ride is a curb-to-curb shared ride service available to the general public, with no application required. The program allows riders to schedule trips within designated service areas within their community and provides transportation for communities where fixed bus routes may not operate.
With this service expansion, residents in Prineville, La Pine, Madras and Redmond will see significantly larger service areas and improved access to scheduled rides. The Dial-A-Ride fare rate is $4 per ride in rural areas. Eligible riders can schedule trips up to 30 days in advance.
Bend Paratransit Dial-A-Ride
Bend Dial-A-Ride provides paratransit transportation service for community members who cannot utilize the fixed-route bus system due to physical or cognitive disabilities. The new pilot service area in Deschutes River Woods will launch May 4 with the goal of extending transportation access to residents who previously had limited mobility options.
Riders must qualify for this service. Qualification information and applications can be found at https://cascadeseasttransit.com/policies/ride-assist or by contacting CET’s call center at 541-385-8680. Bend and Deschutes River Woods Paratransit Dial-A-Ride service is $4 per ride, with a $20 credit to riders who take 10+ trips in a month.
Scheduling trips is easy, by calling the CET customer service center at 541-385-8680. Eligible riders can schedule trips between one and 14 days in advance for Bend paratransit. Updated service maps and eligibility information are available at https://cascadeseasttransit.com/dial-a-ride.
“Expanding service helps more people stay connected to their community,” said Andrea Wasilew, Outreach and Engagement Administrator for Cascades East Transit. “We’re proud to offer riders greater independence and mobility through this service.”
About Cascades East Transit
Cascades East Transit is Central Oregon’s regional public transit provider, offering fixed-route buses, city connector routes, recreational shuttles, and Dial-a-Ride, and paratransit services. Service areas include Deschutes, Crook, and Jefferson Counties and the Warm Springs community. CET’s mission is to exceed rider expectations by delivering courteous, safe, reliable, and high-quality transit that strengthens regional connectivity, reduces congestion, supports environmental sustainability, and enhances quality of life. Learn more at www.CascadesEastTransit.com.
