Residents of Central Oregon without access to personal vehicles are increasingly confronting the realities of life in a car-centric society. Their experiences highlight the challenges faced by individuals who cannot drive, either by choice or due to circumstances beyond their control, such as age or disability.
Mark Schuette, a 74-year-old inventor and resident of Bend, is currently navigating a yearlong suspension of his driver’s license. This suspension stems from an accident involving an uninsured vehicle, which he describes as feeling “terrible,” “cruel,” and “tragic.” His minivan was struck by a truck on the Bend Parkway in June, leading to his current predicament. Schuette had recently received an engine replacement for his vehicle but neglected to transfer the insurance from his other minivan, which was parked at his home in Deschutes River Woods.
Adding to Schuette’s frustration is the recent passage of HB 840 by the Oregon legislature, which eliminates the requirement for license suspension for driving uninsured. Unfortunately for Schuette, the law will not take effect until January 1, 2026, leaving him without a license until then. In response, he has turned to alternative forms of transportation, purchasing a pedal-assist e-bike to manage daily errands, such as grocery shopping and medical appointments, despite the challenges posed by the local infrastructure.
Statistics Highlight Non-Driving Demographics
Schuette’s situation is reflective of a broader trend affecting millions of Americans. According to the Federal Highway Administration, there are approximately 238 million drivers in the United States, while the total population stands at around 335 million. This implies that nearly 29% of the population cannot legally drive. A study by the National Resource Defense Council found that 36% of Americans aged ten and older do not depend on personal vehicles for transportation.
Such statistics underscore the concerns of transportation advocates, who argue that urban planning often neglects the needs of this significant portion of the population. In Bend and the broader Central Oregon area, efforts are underway to shift the focus towards creating more inclusive infrastructure. Recent policy changes at both city and state levels have led to the emergence of new designs intended to enhance safety for pedestrians and cyclists.
Data compiled by the Downtown Bend Business Association reveals that approximately 80% of respondents drive to downtown Bend during the summer, while this figure rises to 90% in winter. This survey was initiated in response to a city study on a low-car “people street” project, which aims to improve walkability and biking in the downtown area. Concerns have been raised regarding potential economic impacts, with the association warning that reduced car access could lead to millions of dollars in lost revenue due to fewer parking spaces.
Public Transportation Challenges
The challenges faced by non-drivers are further illustrated through the experiences of others in the community. For instance, Becky Salmon, a 65-year-old resident, transitioned from living in her car to finding housing in a supportive environment. After selling her vehicle, she began using a three-wheeled bicycle for transportation. Unfortunately, a collision with a truck while riding in a bike lane resulted in injuries and damage to her bicycle, forcing her to rely on the bus system for her commuting needs.
Salmon’s reliance on public transportation has not been without difficulties. She often encounters issues with bus schedules, which can lead to missed appointments. Starting February 1, 2026, the local transit agency, Cascades East Transit, will reinstate fares after a period of free rides, adding another layer of complexity for low-income riders. Each ride will cost $2, though reduced fares will be available to those who qualify.
Another non-driver, Lisa Laing, who takes the bus nearly every day, has noted that while the morning schedule is relatively frequent, buses often fail to arrive on time. Living near Bear Creek Road and 15th Street, she has struggled with the impacts of local construction on her bus route and the overall reliability of public transport.
The transit agency is considering the introduction of an on-demand rideshare service to serve areas like Deschutes River Woods, which currently lacks public transportation options. However, the timeline for this service remains uncertain due to ongoing political debates regarding transportation funding.
As winter approaches, Schuette is left contemplating his options for navigating the season without a vehicle. He hopes to secure a “hardship permit” that would allow limited driving privileges. Reflecting on his recent challenges, he expressed concern about the dangers of biking in inclement weather, particularly with the potential for snow and ice.
The experiences of residents like Schuette, Salmon, and Laing illustrate the pressing need for improved transportation options and infrastructure that accommodates all members of the community, regardless of their ability to drive. As Central Oregon grapples with these issues, the push for a more inclusive approach to urban planning and transportation continues to gain momentum.
