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Cherriots receives high marks in community value survey

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The public transit provider’s score is 18 points higher than national average

Cherriots received outstanding results from its annual, independently conducted community value survey.

"These results validate my belief that Cherriots is a well-respected organization and further supports our vision of delivering valued mobility options that inspire community pride," said General Manager Allan Pollock. "Public transit is an essential and vital community service that connects people to jobs, education, health care and more.”

ETC Institute, based in Kansas, conducted the survey with a sample size of 428 community members.

One of the key findings is 85 percent of respondents agree that Cherriots is a valuable part of the community. The national average for a transit agency is 67 percent.

Other findings from the survey include:

  • 98% know that Cherriots is the public transit provider for the Salem region
  • 83% agree that Cherriots contributes to the success of the community 
  • 75% understand the services Cherriots provides
  • 49% say Cherriots is valuable to them personally
  • 63% agree Cherriots reduces traffic congestion

Beyond the abundant community goodwill, the survey also provides insights to help Cherriots optimize its services. Looking ahead, the agency plans to build on this success by exploring enhanced services, sustainable vehicles and technologies that will further its community impact.

“While these results are excellent, we will continue to enhance our services to better meet the mobility needs of our community,” said Pollock.

Formed in 1979, the Salem Area Mass Transit District, is a municipal corporation covering 76 square miles in the Mid-Willamette Valley between Portland and Eugene. Locally known as Cherriots, the district provides service to more than 500,000 residents in Marion and Polk counties. Annually, the transit district provides approximately three million passenger trips.

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