Redmond, Ore. – Cascades East Transit (CET) confirmed Thursday that its Redmond Flex Routes A and B will cease operation on Friday, Dec. 4. The decision follows months of expanded service hours and targeted outreach that failed to generate sufficient passenger numbers.
Why the routes are ending
Andrea Wasilew, outreach and engagement administrator for CET, explained that the Flex routes never reached the ridership levels needed to sustain them. “While the Flex routes have not achieved the ridership needed to sustain operations, our commitment to serving Redmond remains strong,” Wasilew said. “We recognize the importance of reliable, accessible transportation and look forward to working with the City and community to explore solutions that better connect residents to jobs, health care, education and other essential destinations.”
What remains available
Even with the loss of the two Flex routes, CET will continue to operate a suite of other services for Redmond residents, including the Redmond Dial‑A‑Ride, Community Connector routes, van‑pool programs, and the Veteran Medical Rides Program. Riders who need assistance finding alternative routes or making Dial‑A‑Ride reservations can contact CET’s Customer Service Center at 541‑385‑8680 or visit the agency’s website.
Community input being sought
To shape future transit planning, CET is partnering with the City of Redmond on a public survey that will remain open online through Dec. 31. The survey asks local residents, businesses, and community organizations about travel patterns, service gaps, transportation barriers, and priority areas for improvement. CET officials said the feedback will directly inform upcoming service evaluations and potential new models for connecting Redmond’s neighborhoods.
Regional context
CET serves Central Oregon across Deschutes, Crook, and Jefferson counties, as well as the Warm Springs community. Its portfolio includes fixed‑route and flex‑route buses, recreational shuttles, dial‑a‑ride services, and paratransit options. The agency’s decision to end the Flex routes reflects a broader effort to allocate resources where they can have the greatest impact on mobility and economic opportunity.
Looking ahead
City officials and transit planners will use the survey results to evaluate alternative service models, such as expanding existing fixed routes, enhancing on‑demand options, or exploring partnerships with private mobility providers. The goal is to ensure that Redmond’s transportation network remains reliable, affordable, and aligned with the needs of families, workers, seniors, and veterans.
Residents are encouraged to share their thoughts through the CET survey and to stay informed about upcoming public meetings where transit plans will be discussed.
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.
