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SMART Transit celebrates 30 years with two electric buses

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Cherriots partner SMART is looking toward a more sustainable future

SMART Transit in Wilsonville celebrated 30 years of service with the unveiling of two brand new battery-electric buses at a ceremony on Wednesday, June 26, at Wilsonville Station. Many Cherriots staff members were on hand to celebrate with our transit partner, including Allan Pollock, general manager, and Steve Dickey, director of strategic initiatives and program management.

SMART is a key partner for Cherriots because we jointly operate Route 1X between Salem and Wilsonville. Cherriots buses carry commuters on five round trips daily, and SMART buses add an additional eight round trips. Route 1X is one of most popular Cherriots Regional routes.

At the celebration event, SMART Transit Director Dwight Brashears shared an inspiring message about what these new buses mean for the future of the agency. From the City of Wilsonville to the high school students who designed the wrap on the new electric buses, he highlighted the collaboration that made it all possible,

Seven students from Wilsonville High School and the Arts and Technology High School worked together to create a custom design for the two new buses. Their design was also adapted and used on SMART staff shirts, as well as coffee mugs for the event attendees. Director Brashears took the opportunity to recognize the students and present them with certificates of accomplishment for their efforts.

Wilsonville Mayor Tim Knapp read an official proclamation from the city to proclaim the day “Electric Bus Day.” Other civic leaders, including City Councilor Charlotte Lehan and representatives for national elected leaders were present as well to offer their congratulations.

The new Proterra battery-electric buses are whisper quiet as they shuttle riders. It’s estimated that they will keep five million pounds of carbon out of the atmosphere over their lifespan. At the end of the event, SMART gave attendees free rides on the new buses and everyone loved the smooth, quiet ride.

Want to learn more about Route 1X and plan your trip to Wilsonville? Visit the Route 1X page.

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