Transportation/Human Services Coordination Project
The Association of Oregon Counties (AOC) teamed with the ODOT Rail and Public Transit Division to conduct three distinct public transportation-human service coordination projects around the state. The pilot projects are located in North Central Oregon (Hood River, Wasco and Sherman Counties), Central Oregon (Jefferson, Deschutes and Crook Counties), and the Central Willamette Valley (Linn, Benton, and Lincoln Counties).
AOC has subcontracted with the Mid Columbia Economic Development District (MCEDD) to manage the North Central pilot project and with Cogan Owens Green to manage the Central Oregon and Central Willamette Valley projects.
The impetus for these projects grew out of the 2013 Transportation/Human Services Coordination Study. Among its recommendations was the conclusion that there is more opportunity at the local level than state level for improving coordination. Another finding highlighted at least 35 programs administered by 13 separate state and federal agencies that provide travel services to transportation disadvantaged populations. Transportation necessary to access human services is vital because people need to get to medical appointments, obtain medicine and groceries, and commute to work.
The pilot projects aim to identify changes within the control of local communities and regional areas, address increasing demands, and enhance coordination between transportation and human service programs.
For more information contact:
Ann Hanus, 503-871-9764