Cascades East Transit to boost bus frequency and launch new route in 2026

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Cascades East Transit will implement significant service enhancements across Central Oregon beginning May 4th, 2026. The changes include increased bus frequency on Bend routes and the launch of a new route in Jefferson County connecting Warm Springs and Madras.

The transit system, which is operated by the Central Oregon Intergovernmental Council, designed the improvements to increase reliability and expand access for riders. The update includes system-wide changes focused on safety, bus cleanliness, and customer service.

Routes 1 and 4 on Third Street will run every 15 minutes during the busiest weekday service hours. This is an improvement from the current 30-minute intervals. Additional routes in Bend will increase weekday peak service from 45-minute to 30-minute intervals. Select high-demand segments near Neff Road, St. Charles Medical Center, and portions of 27th Street will also improve to 15-minute frequency.

A new route in Jefferson County will begin service on May 5th, 2026. The line will connect Warm Springs and Madras to Kah-Nee-Ta and Simnasho. The route is intended to improve connectivity to health care, jobs, and essential services while providing new recreational opportunities.

Andrea Wasilew serves as the outreach and engagement administrator at CET. She highlighted the program's focus on connecting with specific groups in the region. “Our goal is to make transit easy to understand and accessible for everyone in our community,” Wasilew said. “Through ongoing outreach and partnerships, we’re connecting with riders where they are - supporting seniors, people with disabilities, and rural residents in accessing transportation and staying connected to essential services.” 

The agency will also add a new stop at the Central Library in Bend on May 11th, 2026. Beyond specific routes, CET is advancing upgrades to existing bus stops and transit facilities. Other system-wide efforts include enhancing call center support, improving schedule reliability, and increasing public awareness of service changes.

Cascades East Transit is also focusing on professionalism and customer service. Improvements are planned for bus cleanliness and overall on-time performance for the network.

Riders will begin to see updated schedules and information at bus stops, on buses, and at Hawthorne Station in Bend. Further information is available on the Cascades East Transit website or by calling the customer service center at 541-385-8680.