Washington County wants to hear from Hillsboro transit riders before it decides where to spend state dollars on buses and shuttles over the next two budget cycles.

The county's Department of Land Use & Transportation opened an online survey on Wednesday, Aug. 19, asking residents to weigh in on proposed changes to routes, schedules and stop amenities as part of its Transit Development Plan. The survey closes Sunday, Sept. 13.

Responses will directly shape funding requests for fiscal years 2027–28 and 2028–29, according to the county.

The free shuttle connecting Orenco Station to the North Hillsboro Industrial Area is one of eight community connector routes explicitly named in the plan. Operated by Ride Connection, the North Hillsboro Link runs 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week, ferrying workers to employers including Amazon fulfillment centers, LAIKA Studios, Intel Ronler Acres, Genentech and Reser's Fine Foods.

The shuttle is free. TriMet lists it as a no-fare, general-public service available to anyone, not just employees of the industrial-area companies.

What the survey covers

The county is asking residents to review proposed service updates and rank priorities across five areas:

  • New and expanded routes
  • Earlier, later and more frequent service
  • Stronger connections between TriMet, SMART and local job shuttles
  • Improved pedestrian and ADA access at stops
  • Enhanced transit stop amenities such as shelters and lighting

"Our goal is to make transit more reliable, accessible and connected for everyone," Stephen Roberts, director of Washington County's Department of Land Use & Transportation, said in the county's announcement. "Your feedback will influence the adjustments and improvements we pursue."

Funding secured despite state cuts

The Transit Development Plan is funded through Oregon's Statewide Transportation Improvement Fund, a 0.1% payroll tax dedicated to public transit. The program was not affected by the March 2026 legislative funding redirection that cut several Oregon Department of Transportation programs, according to ODOT.

On June 2, the Washington County Board of Commissioners voted 5-0 to authorize staff to apply for additional STIF discretionary grant money for transit enhancements countywide.

How to participate

The online open house and survey are available at tdp2026.washcoopenhouses.org through Sunday, Sept. 13. The plan is updated on a two-year cycle, making this the window for residents to influence the next round of service changes.