Cherriots Shares Update On Business Coalition Task Force - 06/26/26

SALEM, OR – (June 26, 2026) — At its June 25 meeting, the Cherriots Board of Directors voted to pause the activities of the Business Coalition Task Force while the District evaluates next steps to advance long-term transit growth and meet the needs of the community. 

The task force was convened to collaborate and explore opportunities for supporting the District’s future growth and meeting the evolving transportation needs of the Salem-Keizer region. 

The Cherriots Board of Directors will consider future engagement opportunities and provide updates on next steps. Cherriots extends its sincere appreciation to all task force participants for their time, expertise, and shared commitment to strengthening the region’s transportation network and economic vitality.

“The outcome of the state transportation package in the May primary election highlighted the importance of continued conversations with our community and business partners about transportation funding priorities,” said Board President Maria Hinojos Pressey. “As we prepare for a leadership transition with the upcoming retirement of our long-serving general manager, the Board believes this is an appropriate time to pause, reflect on the valuable work completed to date, and consider the best path forward.”

Throughout its discussions, the task force gained valuable perspectives and helped deepen understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing regional transit. While the group was not able to reach consensus on a proposed approach related to an employer payroll tax within the established timeline, the conversations reinforced the importance of reliable public transportation and the need for continued collaboration.

Cherriots remains committed to working with community partners to identify sustainable solutions that support a reliable, accessible, and economically vital transit system. From the outset, the goal has been to invest in more frequent service, expanded hours, and stronger connections to jobs, education, healthcare, and other essential services.

Today, approximately 82% of Cherriots riders rely on the system for work, shopping, and other daily activities, underscoring the critical role transit plays in supporting the region’s quality of life and economic success.

About Cherriots

Established in 1979, Salem Area Mass Transit District (SAMTD) is a special district serving 78 square miles in the Mid-Willamette Valley between Portland and Eugene. Locally known as Cherriots, the District provides vital transportation services to more than 450,000 residents in Marion and Polk counties. SAMTD maintains a fleet of 124 transit vehicles across its various services and provides approximately 3.3 million passenger trips annually.

For more information, visit cherriots.org.