As TriMet grapples with a substantial budget shortfall, it is turning to the public to weigh in on proposed transit service adjustments for Washington County. The transit agency is facing a $300 million annual budget shortfall, and service changes are being considered as it seeks to streamline operations starting August 23, 2026. Changes could affect several lines, including modifications to Line 76 Hall/Greenburg and a reduction in frequency for Line 20 Burnside/Stark, as reported by the Washington County website.
In a bid to close this gap, TriMet has outlined potential changes in service that predominantly impact the residents of Washington County. Notably, riders of the Line 76 may see it extended to replace Line 20 between the Beaverton Transit Center and Sunset TC. While serving people in Beaverton and Northwest Portland, Line 20 itself is facing a drop in service levels, with headways stretched to every 30 minutes. Residents reliant on the Line 45 might find themselves lacking any weekend service and reduced weekday trips that only run during high school commute hours.
Tigard and Southwest Portland could lose the Line 45 service between Washington Square TC and Tigard TC. Those traveling from Tualatin will see Line 37 eliminated between Lake Oswego TC and Tualatin Park & Ride, while Line 76 will see cuts from Legacy Meridian Park Hospital to Oregon City TC. Moreover, Line 96 is slated to be rerouted off I-5, with a new path along SW Boones Ferry Road, changes that will include only serving rush-hour traffic with limited service between Barbur TC and Downtown Portland. Total elimination of the Line 97 service is also proposed.
Adjustments to the TriMet LIFT Paratransit program accompany these proposed route alterations, with changes to boundaries that are sure to impact some users dependent on these specialized services. Given the gravity of the situation, TriMet is actively seeking feedback from the public to influence their final decision-making process. Interested parties have until January 31, 2026, to share their opinions through TriMet's online survey or attend one of several scheduled virtual or in-person open house events this month, as detailed by Washington County officials.
For those looking to contribute input or simply learn more about the potential transit service revisions, they can access the survey and get information about the open house sessions through links provided by the county. Each voice in this conversation represents a stakeholder in the shaping of a public service that remains vital to the rhythms of daily life for countless individuals. With the deadline rapidly approaching, the window for public commentary is closing—an opportunity for the public to express their needs and concerns directly to those orchestrating the future of transit in their communities.
