Gorge Transit Summit: A Day to Transform the Way You Think About Transit
From Mid-Columbia Economic Development District:
By Kathy Fitzpatrick
Hood River, Ore., April 2, 2025 — Don’t think transit is riveting? Give us a day to change your mind. The Gorge Transit Summit invites you to explore the dynamic evolution of public transportation in the Columbia River Gorge and its role in solving some of the region’s most pressing challenges.
Join us on Thursday, April 10, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM PDT at Columbia Center for the Arts (215 Cascade Avenue, Hood River, OR) for a day filled with expert discussions, interactive workshops, and exciting announcements about the future of Gorge Transit. Doors open at 8:30 AM with coffee, pastries from local bakeries, and interactive booths.
What to Expect:
Gorge Experts Panel – Hear from regional transit leaders about recent growth and future plans.
The Riders Game Show – A fun, interactive test of transit knowledge.
Keynote Speaker: Jarrett Walker – Internationally renowned transit consultant and author of Human Transit.
Hands-On Route Planning Workshop – Design your own transit system in a collaborative session.
Big Reveals & Future Visions – Learn about upcoming projects and envision different scenarios of the Gorge decades from now.
Exciting Lunch Break Adventures:
○ BUS TOUR – Ride to the heights of Hood River with lively commentary and games.
○ HISTORIC WALKING TOUR – Uncover Hood River’s fascinating history, including the town’s renaming from Dog River and the rich cultural legacy of Japanese Americans.
Why Transit Matters
The summit will highlight how transit is becoming a key solution for mobility, sustainability, and regional connectivity. Engaging sessions include:
Top 10 Things You Probably Don’t Know About Gorge Transit
How Transit Can Help Address Regional Challenges
Travel Trainer Stories
Bus + Bike Romance
And more!
Priority seating will be given to attendees arriving car-free. For a list of buses and route schedules, visit: gorgetransit.com/getting-to-summit. The event schedule aligns with bus arrivals from Portland, The Dalles, and White Salmon. Or click here for carpool options: https://getthere.rideamigos.com/#/events/67eb1ca4521650f008581342
A Word from the Organizers:
“We are excited to highlight the significant progress of the coordinated transit system in the Gorge and how this regional collaboration strengthens access, supports economic vitality, and enhances quality of life for all who call the Gorge home. This gathering of leaders, organizations, riders, and transit industry professionals promises to be thought-provoking as well as inspiring.” — Kathy Fitzpatrick, Mid-Columbia Economic Development District
Join Us!
Whether you’re a transit enthusiast, a community leader, or just curious about the future of transportation, this event is for you.
For more information and to register, visit: www.gorgetransit.com/summit.
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