Page 5 - Wash Co First and Last Mile Background Report

TECHNICAL MEMO #1

range of users, long distances between signalized crossings, limited illumination and a lack of
other modern mobility options (car-sharing, bike-sharing, on-demand shuttle, etc.).
Furthermore, many of the major employment centers are large campus-style developments
with plentiful parking and more than an easy walk from a transit station. Addressing these
challenges is critical to improving transit ridership.

Transit is a critical component of Washington County’s transportation system, reducing
automobile trips and congestion, providing travel options for people without vehicles or those
who choose not to drive, curbing greenhouse gas and other emissions, and reducing
transportation costs for individuals and families. The American Public Transportation Association
reports that residents of the Portland region save an average of $867 per month if they use
transit instead of owning and driving a car.

1.3 Population and Employment

Home to nearly 300,000 jobs and over 600,000 residents, Washington County is expected to
experience significant growth over the next 20 years, as it is among the fastest growing regions in
the state, adding an average of just over one resident and 1.3 jobs per hour in 2017. Washington
County has seen increases in ethnic and cultural diversity and shifts in age distribution. Within the
urban area, the Washington County has become more diverse and increasingly dense. Outside the
urban area, the residential population is slightly older than the Countywide average, with lower
concentration of people of color and low-income households. This section highlights the
population, demographic and employment densities throughout the County. Knowing where the
highest population densities are in Washington County is relevant to determine accessibility to
transportation services and infrastructure, and to inform priorities and partner outreach.

 Figure 1-1 Population Density: The highest population densities are in areas directly
adjacent to transit service in the cities of Beaverton, Hillsboro and Tigard. Rural areas
outside of the TriMet service area have a lower population density of four people or less
per acre.
 Figure 1-2 Overlapping Demographics above Regional Rates (Race/Ethnicity and non-
English Speakers): Washington County has grown much more diverse – most diverse in
the region – with over 32 percent non-white residents.
 Figure 1-3 Employment Density: Since 2010, the County has added over 70,000 jobs
(8,500 jobs per year). High employment density is concentrated along the Sunset and
Highway 217 corridors within Beaverton, Hillsboro, and Tigard. The two largest
employers are Nike and Intel.
 Figure 1-4 Employers in Washington County: Coinciding with the employment density
trends, Beaverton and Hillsboro areas have the highest number of employees. A total of
26 percent of Washington County employees work in Hillsboro area and 23 percent
work in Beaverton area. Twenty-five percent work in parts of the County outside
Beaverton, Hillsboro, Tigard, and Tualatin.

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