Bus Stop Improvement Project
The Bus Stop Improvement Project (BSIP) identifies bus stop features and amenities that CET riders, local governments, and community members value, and lays out a plan for improving bus stops across the CET network.
Bus stops are the gateway to CET services. In this project, CET gathered input from local governments, neighbors, and the riding public to learn which bus stop improvements matter most to the communities CET serves. The BSIP focuses on the comfort and experience of using and accessing bus stops, including amenities, as well as operational improvements to the stops.
The BSIP is also creating new Bus Stop Design Guidelines, and will help guide future investments in bus stops, and clarify processes for local governments and private developers when working with CET to improve bus stops and amenities.
Share your thoughts
Take a quick survey to share your priorities for bus stops in Bend and Central Oregon.
Provide an open ended comment for the Bus Stop Improvement Project.
Note: The above forms are for project feedback. If you have an immediate concern for CET or would like to request a work order, please use our contact form here.
Bend improvements in progress
The Bend Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) awarded CET over $400,000 to complete Bus Stop Improvement Project related improvements within the Bend MPO area. A total of $300,000 was earmarked for adding 10-15 new bus shelters, including any necessary construction costs. The remaining funds target overall bus stop improvements, such as new flag signs to aid in navigation and schedule holders to provide timetables and rider info at bus stops.
Central Oregon improvements planned
COIC, the regional organization that operates CET, authorized $400,000 in its current budget to bring similar improvements as the Bend project to bus stops across Central Oregon. Subsequent planning work and outreach will identify opportunities for future improvements in Redmond, Madras, Warm Springs, Prineville, Sisters, and La Pine.
The improvements
Shelters
The average bus stop shelter in the CET system is now over ten years old. Many have extensive damage where repair becomes difficult to keep up with. A new style shelter has been installed at Hawthorne Station in Bend with perforated metal panels robust to damage while still providing protection from the sun and weather.
Benches
CET is exploring new bench models that can fit in more places. Simme Seats and similar products can be installed on regular sidewalks and still allow room for a wheelchair to pass. Larger benches may be available for stops with higher traffic volumes.
Better schedules
Larger sized schedules, with bigger print, and detailed maps showing connections. QR codes help you find more info online, but everything you need to ride the bus is at the bus stop.
Clear signs
Recognizable bus stop signs making it easier to find your stop. Clear route and stop numbers to help navigate the transit system or report issues.
Other ongoing work
This project is funded to improve bus stops and some elements suggested by the public may fall outside the project scope. However, CET and local partners continuously work to improve Central Oregon’s transportation system. The following may be addressed by the BSIP where possible, but more often fall under other ongoing projects, such as City of Bend sidewalk infill projects or the Mobility Points project.
Accessibility
A complete inventory of bus stops will be taken as part of the BSIP and any that lack standard ADA features will be targeted for future improvements.
Bike racks
Bike racks are typically installed in cooperation with local partners, but may be available through the BSIP.
Wayfinding
CET is encouraging local partners to include public transit information in area wayfinding materials.
Real-time signage
Smart signage with real-time features is targeted for future upgrades at high-traffic locations.
Sidewalk connections
Identifying priority locations for sidewalk infill or multi-use path upgrades in cooperation with local partners.
Mobility hubs also in development
The CET 2040 Transit Master Plan identified mobility hubs as a way to better extend transit service throughout Bend. Hubs would allow bus transfers and multimodal connections away from the current transit center at Hawthorne Station. The City of Bend GO Bond provides funds to support the development of mobility hubs.