Freqently Asked Questions

Is Oakridge now a part of LTD's service district?

No. In order to be part of LTD's service area and to get regular, fixed-route bus service, communities within Lane County must agree to participate in LTD's business payroll and self-employment tax program. The cities of Oakridge or Westfir do not participate.

However, LTD provides technical assistance to rural communities through Accessible Services. In this way, LTD has been able to help establish programs outside of its service area by pursuing other funding opportunities. LTD coordinates these services with the help and guidance of interested rural residents, local officials, and staff from social service agencies.

Who runs the Diamond Express service?

The service was created in 2003 through a partnership between LTD, the City of Oakridge and stakeholders from Oakridge and Westfir. It is administered through LTD Accessible Services. Pacific Crest Bus Lines (PCBL) operates the service under contract with LTD. The Diamond Express manager and drivers are PCBL employees.

How much does it cost to ride, and how does it coordinate with LTD's fare system? Can I ride with my LTD group pass?

Each one-way trip fare is $2.50. Riders who pay the $5.00 round-trip fare when boarding in Oakridge will receive an LTD Day Pass that can be used on LTD buses throughout that day in the Eugene/Springfield area. The fare must be paid in cash with exact change or with Diamond Express tickets that can be pre-purchased at LTD Customer Service at the Eugene Station, 11th Avenue and Willamette Street. Only cash and VISA or MasterCard are accepted.

LTD group pass holders and other LTD passes cannot be used to ride the Diamond Express. Rider fares cover only a small portion of the cost of providing the service. Fares have been kept as low as possible and have not been raised since start-up.

What is the capacity for people, bicycles, and wheelchairs on the vehicle?

The primary Diamond Express bus is a 35 passenger vehicle with two spaces for persons who use a mobility device. This bus also includes a front mounted bicycle rack that holds three bikes. At the driver's discretion, additional bicycles can be placed on board. Sometimes the back-up vehicle must make the run. It is smaller and can only carry two bikes and fewer people.

What happens if the bus is full? Will another bus be sent out?

The Diamond Express operates on a first-come, first-served basis. If needed, a second vehicle will be dispatched for the 5:30 p.m. return trip to ensure that everyone gets a ride back to Oakridge.

Is there a Park & Ride location?

Currently, there is one informal Park & Ride location at the Westridge Middle School site to serve residents of Westfir. Oakridge riders will need to walk to the route or be dropped off to catch the bus, or may use available on-street parking near the route.

There are no designated Park & Ride locations within Oakridge.