Transportation is one of the biggest barriers facing many Point Roberts residents, particularly seniors and those without reliable vehicles. Reaching services on the mainland can be one of the biggest practical challenges of living in our unique community.
Back in late summer of 2023 a discussion was started at a Point Roberts Community Advisory Committee (PRCAC) meeting on why Point Roberts was not getting transit service from Whatcom Transportation Authority (WTA).
Previously, WTA attempted to serve Point Roberts through various means, including a WTA operated van, zone service, taxi service and, during COVID, a partnership with the Port of Bellingham that provided shuttle service via a now discontinued ferry service.
None of these options worked. So WTA and PRCAC collaborated to find a better way.
By early 2024 an agreement was reached.
WTA would donate a vehicle and provide the funds to operate the program. WTA would not be involved in decision making (e.g. policies, scheduling, customer care, operations, maintenance, etc.), but rather Point Roberts Circle of Care — a 501(c)(3) nonprofit — would operate the service for the Point Roberts community.
A community resource
Today, the Raven provides transportation for all Point Roberts residents who need to travel to medical appointments, run errands or access services on and off the Point. The van can accommodate up to six passengers and has space for walkers or other mobility aids.
For many riders, the service provides something just as important as transportation — peace of mind, an opportunity for connection with other residents and independence.
One rider said, “I have been enjoying this service over the past few weeks, and I only wish I’d tried it sooner. The experience of traveling for shopping and acquiring social services, along with other residents has helped me forge new friendships in a setting of exploration and adventure that has shown me a side to people that I haven’t had the fortune of experiencing within the routines and setting we share.”
The rider went on to add, “Every time I ride, I return with treasured memories of these new encounters. I’m grateful we have this service, and I only hope it can be expanded to include the weekends, and longer hours.”
Nichole Nelson said the service allowed them to remain in the community.
“I ride the Raven on Fridays and can’t imagine what life would be like if it wasn’t available to take me to the store, the bank or the post office,” the rider said. “I would have to move off the Point if this program were not available.”
Weekly schedule
Tuesday and Thursday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.:
Friday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.:
How to book a ride
Residents can schedule a ride by contacting the Raven scheduler 360-788-9473 and leaving a message or by using the online booking system at prtheraven.com. Our scheduler will contact you with confirmation.
Advance reservations are recommended.
Because the van serves multiple riders during each trip, passengers are encouraged to schedule mainland appointments between 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. whenever possible.
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