Access control devices  now in operation at NE 60th and NE 82nd MAX Station elevators

As part of our ongoing efforts to improve elevator safety and reliability, TriMet has installed access-control devices on elevators at our NE 60th Ave and NE 82nd Ave MAX stations. These elevators, along with the one at the Hollywood/NE 42nd Ave, are now only accessible to riders with a valid fare. While valid fare is required, there is no cost to use the elevators.

Elevator access control was first introduced as a permanent feature of the Hollywood/NE 42nd Ave MAX station after a month-long trial in 2023. The result has been a reduction in misuse and improved reliability of the elevator for those who need it, including people with mobility challenges, bicycles or strollers with children.

Elevator access control – A step-by-step guide

TriMet operates 17 elevators at MAX stations, transit centers and parking garages across our system. Many of these elevators are located at our grade-separated stations, such as those along Interstate 84. The elevators provide access to TriMet service for people who have mobility challenges. TriMet has worked to upgrade many of our elevators over the years through our Elevator Improvement Program, and we continue to focus efforts on reducing unnecessary wear and tear so they are available for those who need them.

To use an access-controlled elevator, tap a Hop card, contactless credit/debit card or phone on the black reader by the elevator’s door until it displays “Elevator Access.”  For riders with tickets printed on buses, hold the QR code below the QR code reader underneath the device. The doors will then open, possibly after a brief wait. There is no charge to use the elevator. 

These devices are not Hop fare readers. Riders must tap their Hop card, payment card or phone at the green Hop reader on MAX platforms to pay fare before boarding the train. 

Added security measures

Access control is one of several significant safety and security improvements TriMet has introduced over the past two years. With nearly 500 people dedicated to safety and security on the system, TriMet has more people than ever before to support riders and enforce the rules for riding.

More enforcement has led to positive security outcomes. Calls for police service on TriMet have dropped 40% since 2022. Having more unarmed security personnel present creates a visible deterrent that discourages inappropriate behavior.

Recent additions to safety and security over the past year include: 

• Security Operations Center: Using thousands of surveillance cameras and an integrated communications platform, dispatchers at TriMet’s Security Operations Center respond to calls and deploy safety and security personnel in real time.
• Blue-light security phones: TriMet has installed 18 blue-light security phones on MAX platforms, with more planned in the future. These red towers with a bright blue light on top give the riders a direct line of communication with TriMet’s Security Operations Center. They are similar to technology that college campuses have used for decades. 
• Drug laws: Senate Bill 1553 went into effect on Jan. 1, 2025, making possession of small amounts of illicit drugs on public transit a serious misdemeanor. Since the passage of the law last spring, TriMet has seen a steep decrease in reports of drug use on and around the system. 

The goal of elevator access control is cleaner and more reliable elevator service for riders. We continue to urge riders to be our eyes and ears and to let us know if you see unacceptable behavior. Text or call our 24/7 security hotline: 503-238-7433 (RIDE). For emergency matters that require police, riders should contact 911 immediately.