Students, staff and campus visitors using the Oregon Department of Transportation bus serving the Willamette Valley, called Point, have a more convenient and accessible location to get on and off the bus at the University of Oregon starting April 1.
The new location on Agate Street near 15th Avenue, in front of historic Hayward Field and the School of Law, now offers a paved boarding area with better lighting and easier loading and unloading for passengers using wheelchairs and mobility devices. ODOT partnered with Lane Transit District, the University of Oregon’s Transportation Services and the city of Eugene in a multi-year effort to secure an improved pick-up and drop-off location for the campus community.
"The Point service provides a convenient and environmentally friendly connection from Portland to the University of Oregon," UO active transportation coordinator Josh Kashinsky said. "I'm excited that, with the support of the city of Eugene, we are able to bring this service closer to the center of campus and Hayward Field."
The former Point pickup on campus on 15th Avenue near the Student Recreation Center was challenging for buses to negotiate, and construction in the area has made the spot impossible to use. The new location at 15th and Agate is easier to access, closer to residence halls and an overall improvement.
“We’re happy that we get to stay centrally located on campus, and now in a location that is all around safer and better for everyone,” said Joel Manning, Point project manager. “The new stop also gives the Point a front row seat to the Hayward Field construction progress and will help put our passengers first in line when it reopens for events without having to drive or worry about parking.”
The Cascades Point bus runs from Eugene to Portland and back seven times each day, serves five cities and offers 51 seats, restrooms, free Wi-Fi, power outlets, air conditioning and space for luggage and bicycles. Tickets are sold by Amtrak, and the service is operated in coordination with Amtrak Cascades passenger train service.