SAM ridership continues to increase. SAM provided 12,356 rides in May 2018 compared to 11,276 rides in May 2017, an overall increase of 9.6%.

All routes showed an increase with the exception of STAR dial-a-ride. The Shopper Shuttle increased 160% from 206 rides in May 2016 to 536 rides in 2018. It is the success of the Shopper Shuttle that directly contributes to the decrease in STAR rides. Those who once depended on STAR for daily errands, now has a shuttle option.

Double Map was chosen for the Intelligent Information Solutions (ITS) for SAM and MHX buses. Double Map is a company that is headquartered in Indianapolis IN and has provides ITS service throughout the United States. The SAM app with estimated time arrivals and bus locations is coming soon! We were also able to procure interior LED signs for bus stop announcements and possibly advertising, automated bus stop announcement for better ADA service, driver tablets for better data gathering and pre and post trip modules on the tablets for improved fleet management.

A selection committee of SAM staff, ODOT representatives and a MHX representative selected a contractor for the updated Transit Master Plan in May. Once the scope of work and final contract budget is agreed upon by the state and contractor, the planning process will begin.