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Cherriots Earns High Marks for Community Value in 2024 Survey

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Survey shows transit agency outperforms national benchmarks across all service categories, with 85% of respondents rating it as valuable community asset

2025-02-04

Salem Area Mass Transit District, Cherriots, has received exceptional results from its annual community value survey – the fourth round of data collection - reaffirming consistent findings from previous years.

"These results demonstrate that Cherriots is delivering on its promise to provide essential mobility services that our community values and respects," said General Manager Allan Pollock. "The data shows we're not just meeting but exceeding national benchmarks in connecting people to jobs, health care, education, and other vital services."

A survey of 412 community members conducted by independent research firm ETC Institute found 85% view Cherriots as a valuable community asset, exceeding the national transit agency average of 67%.

Key findings highlight Cherriots strong community presence and impact:

  • Near-universal awareness, with 99% of respondents identifying Cherriots as the Salem region's public transit provider
  • Superior performance compared to national averages in critical areas:
  1.  Job accessibility and quality of life improvements
  2.  Environmental impact through pollution reduction
  3.  Traffic management and road safety
  4.  Access to essential community destinations

In addition, survey respondents indicated the top ways Cherriots could add community value are increasing service frequency, expanding routes, and adding more bus shelters.

"While we're proud of these results, they also motivate us to further enhance our services," said Pollock. "We're committed to building on this foundation by exploring innovative solutions, including sustainable vehicle technologies and service improvements that will create even greater value for our community."

The survey results will inform Cherriots strategic planning as the agency continues to optimize its services for the growing Mid-Willamette Valley region. To see the survey results in more detail, go to Cherriots Strategic Plan webpage.

Operating 362 days a year, Cherriots aims to provide safe, affordable and sustainable transportation options to the communities it serves. Cherriots assures people get to jobs, schools, and essential services, ensuring community mobility and economic vitality.

Formed in 1979, the Salem Area Mass Transit District, is a municipal corporation covering 78 square miles in the Mid-Willamette Valley between Portland and Eugene. Locally known as Cherriots, the district provides service to about 500,000 residents in Marion and Polk counties. Annually, the transit district provides more than three million passenger trips. 

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