When Portland, Ore.-based TriMet’s fall schedule goes into effect on September 1, bus riders will see $2.1 million in minor changes and a new bus line.

The agency made adjustments to the schedules, routes and/or stops of 11 bus lines. The changes, including the addition of a bus line, will help relieve overcrowding and improve schedule reliability. Two bus lines will return to their regular route after being detoured for more than a year as a new overpass over Powell was installed as part of the Portland-Milwaukie Light Rail Transit Project.

“TriMet’s focus is on improving service for riders where and whenever possible,” said TriMet GM Neil McFarlane. “We are excited to be adding service and making small improvements now with our aim toward restoring frequent bus service in the future.”

Adjustments to schedules and routes can make riding TriMet easier. In September 2012, as part of a cost-saving effort, TriMet streamlined some bus routes. These minor adjustments improved service frequency to some underserved areas, as well as providing a simpler route that was easier to understand.

In 2012, TriMet's ridership jumped anywhere from 29% to 39% based on minor changes. New connections increased weekday ridership while saving operating costs, allowing more funds to be reinvested in more and better service.