New 99 Vine Bus Connects Rural Communities to Eugene Transit Hubs

A new regional transit pilot began service on Monday, linking a string of rural towns to transit hubs in Eugene and creating a first direct connection for several communities. The 99 Vine bus, operated by Pacific Crest Busline, offers four weekday departures and serves McMinnville, Amity, Rickreall, Monmouth, Adair Village, Corvallis, Monroe, Junction City and Eugene, with stops at the Amtrak station and the Eugene airport.

Benton and Yamhill counties partnered to create the route and secured a state grant that will make rides free for six months. Benton County Public Works Director Gary Stockhoff said the route fills a gap for rural communities that previously lacked a direct transit connection to regional depots and services. County officials plan to review ridership data during the pilot period to determine whether to continue or modify the service after the grant expires.

For Lane County residents, the pilot represents increased access to intercity rail and air connections in Eugene and expanded mobility for people who travel between regional centers. Students in smaller towns who need access to educational and employment opportunities may see reduced travel time and cost barriers. Workers who rely on transit to reach job sites in Eugene or Corvallis will gain an additional option, and local governments will be watching ridership patterns to assess demand and equity outcomes.

The funding model and institutional arrangement underline key policy considerations. A short term state grant covers operational costs for now, but a permanent service would require sustained funding from counties, state sources, or other partners. Officials will need clear ridership metrics and cost projections to make those budgetary decisions. Coordination among multiple counties and a private contractor points to the governance challenges of regional transit, including fare policy, scheduling alignment with Amtrak, and connections to local circulator services.

Schedule and stop details are available through Pacific Crest Busline’s website. As the pilot progresses, local residents and civic groups can expect county reports on ridership and staffing, which will shape any proposals for extending or reconfiguring the route.