Cherriots Board Pauses Business Coalition Task Force as Transit District Evaluates Next Steps

SALEM, Ore. — The Cherriots Board of Directors has voted to pause the work of its Business Coalition Task Force as the Salem Area Mass Transit District evaluates its long-term strategy for expanding transit service and meeting the evolving transportation needs of the Salem-Keizer region.

The decision was made during the board’s June 25 meeting and comes as the district prepares for a leadership transition with the upcoming retirement of its longtime general manager.

The Business Coalition Task Force was established to bring together business and community leaders to explore funding opportunities and strategies to support future transit growth across the region. While the group contributed valuable insights during its discussions, members were unable to reach consensus on a proposed employer payroll tax within the established timeline.

Board President Maria Hinojos Pressey said the outcome of the state transportation funding package in the May primary election underscored the need for continued dialogue with community members and business partners about transit funding priorities.

“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,” Pressey said.

Despite the pause, Cherriots officials emphasized that the district remains committed to working with community partners to identify sustainable funding solutions that will support reliable and accessible public transportation throughout the region.

District leaders said the task force’s discussions helped deepen understanding of both the opportunities and challenges facing regional transit. The board plans to consider future engagement opportunities and will provide updates on the next steps in the coming months.

Cherriots thanked task force members for their time, expertise and commitment to strengthening transportation and supporting the region’s economic vitality.

According to the transit district, approximately 82% of Cherriots riders depend on the system for work, shopping and other essential daily activities, highlighting the important role public transit plays in the Salem-Keizer area. The district’s long-term vision includes increasing service frequency, expanding operating hours and improving connections to employment, education, healthcare and other essential destinations.

Established in 1979, the Salem Area Mass Transit District, known locally as Cherriots, serves more than 450,000 residents across Marion and Polk counties. The district operates a fleet of 124 transit vehicles and provides approximately 3.3 million passenger trips each year.