South Lane Wheels Reaffirms Commitment to Rural Rides

Nonprofit transportation provider continues operations after operational transition

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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South Lane Wheels, a nonprofit organization that has provided vital transportation services to rural residents in South Lane County for over 40 years, is reaffirming its commitment to ensuring community members continue to have reliable access to transportation throughout the region, despite recent operational changes.

Why it matters

Access to transportation is essential for rural residents to reach medical care, employment, education, shopping, and community activities. South Lane Wheels represents one of the only available transportation options for many seniors, workers, families, and medically vulnerable individuals in the region.

The details

South Lane Wheels is a private nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that operates a door-to-door transportation service, serving communities including Cottage Grove, Creswell, Drain, Dorena, Culp Creek, Saginaw, London, and Lorane, with scheduled trips also available to Eugene and Springfield. The organization continues to operate despite recent changes affecting regional transportation partnerships, helping residents maintain access to essential services and connections.

  • South Lane Wheels was established in 1982.
  • The organization has been serving the community for more than 40 years.

The players

South Lane Wheels

A private nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to providing safe, reliable, and economical transportation for individuals traveling to essential destinations in South Lane and North Douglas counties.

Ruth Linoz

The Executive Director of South Lane Wheels.

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What they’re saying

“For many people living in rural communities, transportation is not simply convenience, it is independence. Our focus is making sure people can still reach the services and connections they rely on every day.”

— Ruth Linoz, Executive Director, South Lane Wheels (kval.com)

The takeaway

South Lane Wheels' continued operation in the face of regional transportation changes highlights the vital role the nonprofit plays in ensuring rural residents maintain access to essential services and connections, underscoring the importance of community awareness and support to sustain rural transportation services.