Job Access and Reverse Commute (JARC)

The Job Access and Reverse Commute program was established to address the unique transportation challenges faced by welfare recipients and low-income persons seeking to obtain and maintain employment. Many new entry-level jobs are located in suburban areas, and low-income individuals have difficulty accessing these jobs from their inner city, urban, or rural neighborhoods. In addition, many entry level-jobs require working late at night or on weekends when conventional transit services are either reduced or non-existent. Finally, many employment related-trips are complex and involve multiple destinations including reaching childcare facilities or other services.

Seven principles guide program planning, development, and project selection for the Portland Regional JARC Program. These principles stress collaboration and coordination among transportation providers, social service agencies, employers, and other stakeholders to most effectively identify and address priority needs with available resources.