University of Oregon Launches Independent Motor Pool Service
The University of Oregon is set to launch its own motor pool on July 1, ending a long-standing partnership with Oregon State University. The new fleet consists of 41 brand-new vehicles, including sedans, vans, and trucks, available for rent by university users.
David Reesor, director of Transportation Services, explained that the decision to establish an in-house motor pool operation followed extensive research into user needs and long-term costs. “After doing our due diligence, it was very clear to us that establishing an in-house operation was critical,” Reesor said.
The fleet, located at 3233 Franklin Boulevard, includes six Toyota Corolla Hybrid sedans, four Toyota Sienna minivans, six Ford all-wheel drive Escapes, four Ford F-150 trucks (two with canopies), and 21 Ford 12-passenger Transit vans. The vehicles were purchased with a capital investment from the UO, including funds from the Transportation Services department.
Bryne Hagstrom, the newly appointed motor pool manager, brings a background in commercial trucking to the role. Having managed logistics, dispatch, and customer service for large fleets, Hagstrom aims to bring an “above and beyond” customer service culture to the UO motor pool. “At the end of the day, it’s a people business,” Hagstrom said. “The thing that sets you apart is the level of service you provide to your customers.”
The motor pool will serve various university groups, including academic departments, researchers, club sports programs, and event organizers. Vehicle needs range from single-day use to extended periods, on both urban and off-road terrain. Reesor noted that the motor pool is a cost-effective solution for a university with limited parking and a commitment to reducing single-driver trips.
The new motor pool also presents an opportunity to support its costs by potentially making the service available to non-university users in the future, according to Hagstrom. This move could further reduce vehicle needs across the Eugene-Springfield area.
University users are advised to use OSU’s reservation system for trips ending before June 30 and the UO reservation system for trips beginning July 1 and after. The motor pool program is designed to be self-sustaining, with program costs covered by program revenue over a 10-year period.
