Oregon’s public transit could face cuts as lawmakers debate funding priorities

Advocates, Transit Agencies Say Oregon Legislators' Transportation Package Proposal Falls Short

With public transit and safety programs on the line, Democrats are under pressure to find more funding. Increasing the gas and payroll taxes could be part of the solution. by Taylor Griggs Hilda Perez lives with her family in Forest Grove, where she relies on the bus to get around. While Perez said “public transportation has been a lifeline,” it’s not always easy or safe for her to use. After moving to a neighborhood with minimal public transit …

Stockstill: To Dream the Impossible Dream; Public Transit in Irvine

Improving public transportation here in Irvine is back in the news. For decades, reducing reliance on the automobile has been an elusive quest in this community with a well-deserved reputation as the epitome of smart planning. After implementing a free bus shuttle system in a portion of this very large city last year, the Irvine City Council last month voted to consider expanding the Irvine Connect footprint and operations, potentially spending …

Oregon’s public transit could face cuts as lawmakers debate funding priorities

As Oregon lawmakers debate a sweeping transportation funding package, a key question is how much should go to public transit.Some Democrats are backing a proposal to gradually raise the Statewide Transportation Improvement Fund (STIF) payroll tax to keep buses running and expand service. But a competing house Republican proposal would eliminate transit funding entirely and redirect the tax revenue to roads and bridges.Oregon’s 0.1% payroll tax f…