Activities to take place at Washington Park MAX Station, will help better prepare the region for potential emergency events
TriMet and public safety partners will be conducting a full-scale emergency response exercise on Sunday, Nov. 5, 2023. Activities will involve at least 225 people from more than 20 agencies and emergency management partners. The drill will better prepare our region, first responders and TriMet personnel for the potential of threats against the transit system. The exercise will take place at our Washington Park MAX Station—both at the station’s surface-level plaza and some 260 feet below on the platforms in the Robertson Tunnel. This will require disrupting MAX Blue and Red lines for the day.
Scenarios to test and increase regional preparedness
2014 full-scale emergency response drill at TriMet’s Washington Park MAX Station
The regional, full-scale exercise will involve fire, medical and police personnel, as well as TriMet staff. It will include two simulated events: an active attacker and a hazardous materials incident.
The drill is funded through a Transit Security Grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Those grants are awarded to agencies “to protect critical transportation infrastructure and the traveling public from terrorism and to increase transportation infrastructure resilience.”
“There is no known threat to TriMet’s system, but it is vital that we as a public transit provider and our regional first responders remain vigilant and prepared for a coordinated response in the event that ever changes,” TriMet Executive Director of Safety and Security Andrew Wilson said. “We appreciate our riders for their understanding about the disruption to our service for the day, as this exercise is an important part of our comprehensive safety and security efforts and preparedness.”
Washington Park Station closed, MAX Blue and Red lines disrupted
The Washington Park MAX Station will be closed and off limits to the public on Sunday, Nov. 5, and MAX Blue and Red lines will be disrupted for the entire service day. This will allow crews to prepare for and conduct the exercise, then clear personnel and equipment and prepare for the return of regular MAX service on Monday, Nov. 6. Shuttle buses will provide service between Sunset Transit Center and Providence Park stations. MAX Red Line trains will run only between Gateway Transit Center and Portland International Airport. Trains and shuttle buses will run on regular Sunday frequency—every 15 minutes.
If riding MAX Blue or Red lines on Sunday, plan an extra 15 to 30 minutes for trips through the disrupted area. Consider using bus lines 20-Burnside/Stark and 58-Canyon Rd to avoid the disruption. If heading to PDX, use Blue or Green Line trains to reach Gateway Transit Center and transfer to Red Line trains. Plan and track rides at trimet.org.
Tunnel exercise required by FTA
The Federal Transit Administration requires transit agencies to conduct emergency exercises related to critical tunnel infrastructure such as TriMet’s Robertson Tunnel through the West Hills. The tunnel consists of twin, three-mile tunnels spanning between Multnomah and Washington counties. Elevators take people some 260 feet between the surface level at Washington Park and the platforms below, making it the deepest transit station in North America and the fifth deepest in the world. MAX operations through the tunnel began in September 1998, when the MAX Blue Line extension between Downtown Portland and Hillsboro opened.
Emergency response exercise participants
This is TriMet’s first full-scale drill in the Robertson Tunnel since 2014. In addition to TriMet staff, personnel from the following agencies are involved: American Medical Response (AMR), Dikason Medical Services, Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI), Gresham Fire Department, Gresham Police Department, Kaiser Permanente, Multnomah County Emergency Medical Services, Multnomah County Health Department, Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, NW Oregon Health Preparedness Organization, Oregon Department of Emergency Management, Oregon Health Authority (OHA), OHA Health Security Preparedness and Response, Oregon Health and Sciences University (OHSU), Portland Bureau of Emergency Communications (BOEC), Portland Fire & Rescue, Portland Police Bureau, Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue, Washington County Consolidated Communications Agency (WCCCA), Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Washington State Department of Health, SenseMakers LLC.
TriMet’s expanded agreement with the DA’s office holds criminals accountable while improving overall community safety
Multnomah County Deputy District Attorney Julian Samuels plays an important role in increasing safety for TriMet riders and employees. He’s one of two deputy DA’s now working to hold people accountable for crimes committed against TriMet riders, employees or property. As a regular TriMet rider, Deputy DA Samuels understands the value TriMet’s transit service provides in connecting people with jobs and services throughout our tri-county region—and he understands the need for it to be safe. Prosecuting criminals for acts they commit on TriMet’s transit system increases safety for everyone in the communities we serve.
Longstanding partnership expands
TriMet has a long-standing intergovernmental agreement with the Multnomah County District Attorney’s office that dates back to February 1998. Since then, we have contracted with the DA’s office for the services of a single deputy district attorney to work with us to hold people responsible for crimes on our system. In August of this year, TriMet expanded that agreement with the DA’s office. In doing so, we now have a second deputy DA, Megan Irinaga, working on misdemeanor and minor felony cases for TriMet while Samuels, who has worked with TriMet since November 2022, focuses on major and minor felonies.
Dedicated prosecution unit includes deputy DAs and investigators
TriMet’s expanded agreement with the Multnomah County DA’s office also now provides for up to two investigators to assist the deputy DAs in compiling information on TriMet-related cases. This essentially creates a unit of district attorney personnel assigned to TriMet that will have a strong understanding of TriMet’s mission to provide transit service that is safe, convenient, reliable, accessible and welcoming to all. By being dedicated to TriMet cases, the deputy DAs and investigators develop a knowledge of TriMet Code, our rules for riding, as well as laws specific to transit. They work closely with our Transit Police Division, led by Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office command staff, and TriMet security staff.
“TriMet is dedicated to the safety of our riders and employees, and our partnership with the Multnomah County District Attorney’s office enhances our daily security efforts,” TriMet Executive Director of Safety and Security Andrew Wilson said. “TriMet’s security staff and our Transit Police Division partners work together with the DA personnel assigned to TriMet to keep criminals off our transit system.”
“The new prosecutorial resources will help streamline and speed up investigations,” Multnomah County Sheriff Nicole Morrisey O’Donnell said, “while simultaneously freeing up Transit Police officers to focus more time in the community and helping to prevent future crimes.”
“TriMet safety is critical to our community, and my office’s partnership with TriMet supports our united goal of public safety—on our city’s transit system and in the wider community,” Multnomah County District Attorney Mike Schmidt said. “These new resources, combined with our longstanding partnership, will help us prioritize the safety of our public transit system and all those who work to keep us moving.”
Expanding our agreement with the Multnomah County DA’s office is just one of the ways TriMet is working to increase safety and security. Learn more at trimet.org/security.
While levels of drugs detected in University of Washington’s first-of-its kind study of air and surfaces on transit described as “extremely low,” TriMet urges regional crackdown on public drug use
TriMet values the health and well-being of riders and employees, and that’s why we have been working to keep the rampant use of illicit drugs in our community off our buses and trains. In the past two years, our general manager and other leadership have testified before Oregon lawmakers, city councilors and county commissioners asking state and regional leaders to address drugs and crime before they extend onto our transit system.
We also:
Significantly increased security personnel for more on-board presence,
Updated the TriMet Code to address illicit drugs however we can,
Updated standard procedures for when someone is seen smoking drugs on board,
And now we’ve taken part in a first-of-its kind study of fentanyl and methamphetamine in the air and on surfaces of transit vehicles.
Today, the University of Washington released the results of that study, which included testing on some TriMet MAX trains. The study did not assess the health impacts on our riders and operators from the traces found in air and surfaces samples, so TriMet sought the expertise of health experts. Among them, Dr. Robert Hendrickson, a professor of emergency medicine and medical toxicologist at OHSU and the Medical Director of the Oregon Poison Center.
“The concentration of drugs detected in the air and on surfaces in this study were extremely low and would not cause harm to TriMet riders and operators,” Hendrickson said. “There is no threat to the public related to these study results, and individuals who use public transportation for travel needs should continue to feel safe doing so.”
Despite the low levels of drug residue found in the University of Washington research, TriMet wants to keep drugs off our transit system completely. But Oregon law poses challenges for keeping the smoking of fentanyl and meth out of public spaces, such as transit.
TriMet and our union, the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) 757, continue our call to state and local officials and lawmakers to deliver the policy changes and enforcement necessary to curb what has become an epidemic of rampant public consumption of drugs in our region.
“Our riders, operators and other employees deserve to use our system without being exposed to drug use,” said TriMet General Manager Sam Desue, Jr. “More needs to be done to ensure that transit and other public spaces are safe and comfortable for everyone.”
Desue stressed, “TriMet stands ready to be part of the solution to this region-wide drug epidemic, but we urge state and local leaders and our law enforcement partners to continue to address drugs and addiction in our community.”
In addition to collecting air and surface samples on transit, UW researchers tested three Downtown Portland locations*. Three of the samples tested positive for very low levels of meth and none tested positive for fentanyl, yet the challenges of the public consumption of drug use are well known in the communities we serve. * SW 10th Ave & SW Harvey Milk St, SW Taylor St & SW Broadway, SW 9th Ave & SW Alder St St.
Overdose deaths from synthetic opioids have increased by 533% in Multnomah County alone from 2018 to 2022. In June 2023, Dr. Teresa Everson, M.P.H, interim Multnomah County Health Officer, told the Multnomah County Board of Commissioners that the region is in “an unprecedented time with fentanyl” and that the sharp upswing in overdose deaths, “reflects the rapid and radical change in local drug supplies towards fentanyl and other potent synthetic opioids, which began in 2019.”
While the UW study looked at illicit drug residue levels specifically, smoking of any substance—whether nicotine or drugs— is not allowed on TriMet. That includes inside our buses and trains, on rail platforms, at transit centers or in elevators and Park & Rides. Those caught smoking face a citation and fine of up to $175 or exclusion. If riders see someone smoking drugs on board, they should alert the operator immediately.
UW study on secondhand drug smoke on transit
With the use of illegal use of fentanyl skyrocketing across the U.S. and here in the Pacific Northwest, TriMet joined four transit agencies in Washington State in inviting researchers from University of Washington’s Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences to come on board to determine what level of drug residue could be detected.
“The transit agencies share rising concerns about illegal substance use and untreated behavioral health conditions that are common in their communities and throughout the nation. The agencies proactively commissioned this study to identify what levels of drug smoke and surface residue transit employees and riders might encounter on transit vehicles, with a goal of helping to identify responses. The agencies join in thanking the University of Washington’s research team for its work to execute the study.”
– Joint statement from Sound Transit, King County Metro, Community Transit, Everett Transit and TriMet
Overall findings
Researchers placed air pumps on board and collected surface samples from seats, windows and doors in *30 transit buses and train cars across four of the agencies. In total, 180 samples (78 air samples and 102 surface samples) were collected. *This represents 1% of the 2,743 transit vehicles operated by the agencies.
The measurements found may be challenging to comprehend as they are small and abstract. A microgram is a millionth of a gram and one-thousandth of a milligram. A nanogram is one-billionth of a gram, one-millionth of a milligram and one-thousandth of a microgram. Some liken a microgram to a single cell in the human body. Or, consider a grain of sand. While the size of a grain of sand can vary, generally a grain of sand weighs approximately 23 micrograms. Another comparison could be a crystal of sugar. A single fine sugar crystal in those little packets you find at restaurants generally is about 20 milligrams. That’s 20 million times larger than one nanogram and 20,000 times larger than a microgram
Extremely low levels of fentanyl were detected in 25% of the air samples. Extremely low levels of fentanyl also were detected in 46% of the surface samples, ranging from one-hundredth of a nanogram to under a nanogram.
UW researchers also tested the 180 samples taken on the transit agencies’ buses and trains for remnants of methamphetamine. All the air samples tested positive for very low levels of meth and 98% of the surface samples found very low levels of meth as well.
In Portland, on TriMet, researchers collected samples on MAX trains. They gathered the air and surface samples from *eight two-car trains and one single-car train over a two-day period (June 20-21) between 7 p.m. and 12 a.m. The trains traveled through areas where we’ve had incidents of drug smoking reported. *Correction: Previous version incorrectly state ten two-car trains and one single car train.Samples were taken on 17 of TriMet’s 142 train cars or 12% of our light rail vehicles.
The air samples were collected by pumps installed on the ceiling of the train cars, just inside the door to the operator cab and on the outside of the door, in the passenger area. Surface samples were mainly taken on the outside of the operator cab door, in the passenger area, as well as on seats/dividers in the middle of the trains and in the bench seating at the back of the vehicles. Overall, very low levels of fentanyl, meth and cocaine were detected in the air (less than two-tenths of a microgram) and on surfaces (less than two and a half nanograms). A few samples were also tested for cocaine. As with the positive fentanyl and meth results, the level of cocaine found was very low as well.
TriMet Air Samples – 16 Total
Drug type
Operator side of cab door
Passenger side of cab door
Fentanyl
3 positive samples
3 positive samples
0.005-0.077 μg/m3
0.005-0.14 μg/m3
Meth
8 positive samples
8 positive samples
0.011-0.024 μg/m3
0.011-0.039 μg/m3
Cocaine
1 positive sample
N/A
0.144 µg/m3
Note: all air samples were paired samples, meaning the samples were taken just outside the door to the operator’s cab, on the passenger side, and just inside the cab door at the same time.
TriMet Surface Samples – 26 Total
Drug type
Passenger side of cab door
Mid train car
Rear of train
Front seatback
Fentanyl
3 positive samples
2 positive sample
7 positive samples
1 positive sample
0.015, 0.13 ng/cm2
0.014 ng/cm2
0.022-0.17 ng/cm2
0.117 ng/cm2
Meth
8 positive samples
8 positive samples
9 positive samples
1 positive sample
0.035-0.93 ng/cm2
0.081-1.32 ng/cm2
0.020-2.23 ng/cm2
0.79 ng/cm2
Cocaine*
2 positive samples
2 positive samples
2 positive samples
N/A
0.018-0.024 ng/cm2
0.011-0.02 ng/cm2
0.011-0.88 ng/cm2
N/A
*Only 6 surface samples tested for cocaine **Researchers collected a surface sample from a seatback in the front section (elevated section near the door to the operator cab) of a single LRV. That single sample tested positive for traces of both fentanyl and meth.
Public health experts assess findings
TriMet asked Dr. Hendrickson, as well as Multnomah County Public Health officers, to analyze the findings and help us understand them.
These health experts said the study results aren’t surprising: If someone smokes on transit or comes on board after smoking drugs with the residue clinging to their clothes, then that residue can be detected on board. However, the experts determined that the concentrations found in this study are so low that they would not pose a threat to the health of our riders, operators and other employees and that people should continue to feel safe riding.
“Unfortunately, whenever drugs are being used or handled in a community, very small amounts of drug will be detectable with today’s laboratory technology”, said Hendrickson. “For example, small amounts of cocaine can be found on the surface of paper money.”
The UW study took air samples over a 4-5 hour period on MAX Green and Orange/Yellow Line trains. The testing did not determine how long fentanyl or meth may linger in the air, and it did not evaluate ventilation systems or filters. But for those who have longer rides and our operators who are on trains for hours, Hendrickson says the amount of fentanyl in the air samples is thousands of times lower than a dose that would be used to treat pain in a hospital. He also noted that the highest concentration of meth found in air samples was extremely low—0.039 micrograms—which is just 78-thousandths of the medical dose for treating ADHD (5000 micrograms).
Fentanyl fueling national epidemic
Nationally, health and drug enforcement experts say illicit fentanyl is primarily responsible for fueling the ongoing opioid crisis in the United States. While illicit fentanyl clearly poses a risk for those who abuse it, health experts say secondhand or third hand exposure does not.
Among published information about fentanyl dangers:
Studies have looked at fentanyl concentrations in the bloodstream after someone has had secondhand fentanyl exposure from smoke. The levels are extremely low or not detectable. So, there’s no real risk for the everyday person being exposed to secondhand opioid smoke. – Dr. Scott Phillips, Medical Toxicologist and Medical Director of the Washington Poison Center; Public Health Insider, April 2022
Fentanyl must enter the system through the mucus membrane or the bloodstream. It is not a volatile drug, so when it is left undisturbed, it can’t cause harm. It cannot enter through the skin, only through ingestion. – Denver Public Health and Environment
Also, TriMet received 61 workers compensation claims between February 2021 and June 2023, in which employees immediately sought medical treatment after concerns of exposure to secondhand drug smoke. While it was up to emergency room doctors to determine whether toxicology/blood tests were warranted, no tests completed ever came back positive for drugs.
Combatting drug use on board
“We saw this wave of fentanyl and meth use rolling through our community, and we took action,” said TriMet Chief Safety Officer Andrew Wilson. “We have taken a number of steps to try to keep drug use off our buses and trains, and we won’t stop. It will be a continuous effort.”
TriMet has doubled the number of personnel on our security teams since the start of 2022, to increase presence on board. Our security teams will inform anyone seen smoking on board that it is not allowed and supervisors and/or police will be contacted if the person refuses to leave or stop smoking. Our Customer Safety Supervisors enforce TriMet Code, including issuing citations or exclusions for smoking. A year ago, we had 18 Customer Safety Supervisors; today, we have 46.
In addition to increasing security personnel, we changed the TriMet Code in early 2022, to include non-criminal violations of laws or ordinances as actions prohibited on TriMet. Since possessing a small amount of drugs and drug use are now categorized as a violation under Oregon law (ORS Chapter 153), by prohibiting violations of those activities, security personnel can further address the behavior, with a citation or exclusion.
TriMet has added a Safety Response Team, which has now expanded to 58 personnel. Team members connect people in need on and around our transit system with social services such as shelters, mental health resources and addiction services.
In recent years, TriMet has updated our standard operating procedures. Workers focused on cleaning our vehicles wipe down touch points each night, before the bus or train goes into service the next day. We also have procedures to address smoke when it is reported on board. We upgraded the filters in our buses and trains during the COVID-19 pandemic. The HVAC system on our fixed-route buses uses a MERV-12 rated filter and our FX articulated buses use a MERV-13 filter. Our MAX trains use the highest level of filter possible for their HVAC systems, a MERV-10. All the air in the MAX car passes through the HVAC unit about every 74 seconds. The frequent opening and closing of bus and train doors provides additional ventilation. While on-board air is recycled, the fresh air from opening and closing doors and from windows, as well as the air passing through the ventilation filters, helps to clean it.
See something. Say something
TriMet has long had signs and announcements that if you see something suspicious, say something to an operator, other TriMet employee or police. The same is true for riders if they see someone smoking on board. Please alert the operator, whether or not you know they are smoking drugs. Smoking of any kind is prohibited on TriMet. If you are on MAX, you can go to the other end of the train car to use the intercom to talk to the operator. Or, if time allows, you can go to the other car of the train and use the intercom.
TriMet and health experts also urge people to continue practicing good hand hygiene. While handwashing and the use of hand sanitizer became common during the pandemic, it is good practice to always wash your hands after being in public spaces and touching items that others may have touched.
The TriMet Board of Directors welcomes Robert Kellogg as its newest member. Kellogg was nominated by Oregon Governor Tina Kotek. The Oregon Senate approved Kellogg’s appointment on June 16, to take effect July 1, 2023.
Former Tualatin City Councilor, Southwest Corridor steering committee member joins TriMet Board
TriMet District 3 Director Robert Kellogg
Kellogg will serve as the director for TriMet District 3, which covers parts of Southwest Portland, Beaverton, and southern Washington County. Kellogg has run a general law practice for 17 years. With experience on Tualatin City Council, as well as two transportation steering committees, Kellogg brings years of experience in transportation planning to the TriMet Board of Directors.
“The number one priority is safety,” Kellogg said. “TriMet riders should feel safe when getting on board. Delivering on this will help in ridership recovery. TriMet can get people to where they want to go, but we need to work on increasing efficiency, collaborating with our regional partners to speed up buses and get people to where they’re going quicker.”
During his time on Tualatin’s City Council, Kellogg focused on local transportation issues and spearheaded a voter-approved $20 million bond measure, which looked at reducing bottlenecks and improving traffic and pedestrian safety. Kellogg began his public service career with an appointment to the Washington County Future Transportation Study, which examined opportunities for the county’s transportation systems fifty years into the future. Recently, he served on the Southwest Corridor Light Rail Project Steering Committee, which looked at expanding MAX service to the Tualatin Park & Ride at Bridgeport Village.
Kellogg grew up in southeast Missouri, receiving his Bachelor’s Degree from Truman State University. He then moved to the East Coast, graduating Magna Cum Laude from the College of Law at Syracuse University. Kellogg then worked in New York City, beginning his career with Latham & Watkins representing creditors during the bankruptcies of Global Crossing, WorldCom and Enron. It was during his time in New York City that Kellogg says he became enthusiastic about the way public transportation can improve people’s lives and shape vibrant communities.
Kellogg and his family of four live in Tualatin. Kellogg likes to play golf, if he can snag some free time, as his two school-age children keep him busy. He serves on the Board of Directors of Neighbors Nourishing Communities, a local non-profit that gives plant starts and seeds to groups and individuals who commit to donating at least 25% of their harvest to local food banks. In 2022, the organization contributed more than 3,000 pounds of fresh produce.
Thank you to outgoing District 3 and Board President Linda Simmons
Kellogg joins Board Secretary and Treasurer Ozzie Gonzalez and directors Keith Edwards, Tyler Frisbee, Thomas Kim, Dr. LaVerne Lewis and Kathy Wai on the Board.
TriMet would like to thank outgoing Board President, Dr. Linda Simmons, for the prudent financial stewardship that she provided throughout her six and a half years of volunteer service. Director Simmons was first appointed to the Board in December 2016, by Gov. Kate Brown. She was elected President in July 2021, becoming the first woman to serve in the role. Simmons departs with a history of steadfast leadership, which oversaw the launch of the Hop Fastpass® electronic fare payment system in 2017, and the kick-off to the largest bus service expansion in TriMet’s history in 2018. She was also instrumental in TriMet’s response to, and recovery from, the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, Dr. Simmons played a key role in the agency’s adoption of our zero-emission bus program and our TriMet FX® — Frequent Express — bus service. She was also deeply involved in engagement around important agency initiatives, including hiring our General Manager, reimagining public safety and developing our Forward Together service concept.
About the TriMet Board of Directors
TriMet’s Board consists of seven Directors who are appointed by the governor. They set policy for the agency as well as appoint the general manager, implement legislation pertaining to transit operations and review and approve certain contracts.
Board members are volunteers and can serve up to two, four-year terms; however, they serve at the pleasure of the governor and can continue to serve until a successor is appointed. For more information about the TriMet Board, visit trimet.org/board.
Day passes, single ride and 2 ½ hour tickets to increase. Monthly fares and caps for riders using Hop Fastpass™ cards will NOT increase
On Wednesday, May 24, 2023, TriMet’s Board of Directors approved a fare increase that will go into effect Jan. 1, 2024. This is the first increase in our base Adult fare in more than a decade, but the Board chose not to increase monthly fare caps. That means those who ride frequently and use our Hop Fastpass™ fare card will not see an increase in their monthly costs, despite the fare increase.
The fare increase is anticipated to increase the revenue TriMet collects from fares by $5.3 million dollars annually, but that amount is expected to increase as service expands and ridership rebounds. The revenue will help stabilize TriMet’s financial future and allow the rollout of our Forward Together service plan, developed with the community, to increase service by more than 30% from pandemic levels. The service expansion will give more people, especially those with lower incomes, more access to more transit service, to reach more jobs and places.
“While an increase in cost is never easy, the Board’s decision, as financial stewards of TriMet and the public dollars we receive, is an important one for our future and the future of transit in our community,” said TriMet General Manager Sam Desue, Jr. “It will help pay for Forward Together, putting more buses in more areas to get people where they need to go and provide an investment in our light rail system to update decades-old mechanisms and equipment reaching the end of their useful life.”
TriMet fares increasing in January 2024
The following TriMet fares will increase beginning Jan. 1, 2024:
Adult 2 ½ Hour Ticket: up 30 cents to $2.80
Honored Citizen 2 ½ Hour Ticket: up 15 cents to $1.40
Youth 2 ½ Hour Ticket: up 15 cents to $1.40
LIFT paratransit Single Ride Ticket: up 30 cents to $2.80
An all-day pass would still be the cost of two tickets, increasing accordingly:
Adult Day Pass: up 60 cents to $5.60
Honored Citizen Day Pass: up 30 cents to $2.80
Youth Day Pass: up 30 cents to $2.80
Monthly fare caps will not increase
When TriMet fares increase in January 2024, the monthly cap on fares for those using our Hop card will stay the same: $100 for Adult fare payers and $28 for Youth and Honored Citizen reduced fare payers. That means riders will reach the monthly fare cap sooner, and ride for no additional cost starting earlier in the month. Under the fare increase, those paying Adult fare would reach $100 after buying 17.5 day passes, and those paying Youth or Honored Citizen reduced fare would reach $28 after 10 day passes.
TriMet fares have not increased with costs, other basic services hikes
TriMet held off increasing our base fare since 2012. Yet since that time, TriMet has seen our own costs increase, and people have paid more for everything from fuel to water, garbage, utilities, groceries and other basic services and products.
In the past decade, water fees jumped by 110%, sewer rates went up more than 50% and garbage collection fees rose by more than 20%. The Social Security’s cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) increased by more than 20%.
Among the rise in costs TriMet has experienced, the cost of tires for our buses have gone up 30% in the past decade. The average cost for a gallon of fuel was 18% higher in the past year than in fiscal year 2018, and since mid-2021, we’ve seen a 10%-25% increase in prices for many of the parts and components for our buses and trains.
TriMet’s January 2024 fare increase will represent a 12% hike.
Community partnerships, reduced fares to help mitigate fare increase
TriMet understands a fare increase may be challenging for those on low and limited incomes who rely on transit. In addition to keeping monthly fare caps for those who use our Hop card at the same cost of today, TriMet will continue our reduced fare program and other Access Transit programs that have been helping people who are struggling financially. Those programs have been in place for years now, and TriMet will work to further expand awareness and availability of the programs.
TriMet’s Honored Citizen reduced fare program allows people over 65, those with disabilities and those who earn a low income to ride daily for half the cost of an adult fare, and up to 72% less a month. In addition to that, those who qualify for the Honored Citizen reduced fare based on their income level receive a free month of rides when they register for the program or re-enroll. We’ll be working to expand promotion of the Honored Citizen reduced fare so more people are aware of the savings. We’re also exploring extending the registration for the reduced fare program from two years to three years.
Since July 2018, when TriMet expanded the reduced fare program to those making up to 200% of the federal poverty level, more than 50,000 people have signed up. Learn more at trimet.org/income.
Since 2013, TriMet’s Access Transit programs have provided fare assistance and fare relief grants to eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofit and community-based organizations. We give more than 100 organizations fares at a reduced cost or at no cost, so they can get them into the hands of those who need them. Since 2015, TriMet has provided those community partners with more than $12.2 million in fares. Learn more at trimet.org/accesstransit.
While TriMet’s youth fare for those ages 7 through 17 is half the cost of an adult fare, we also have programs for high schools to provide students free or discounted fares. Learn more at trimet.org/summerpass. Youth age 6 and under ride free with an accompanying adult.
TriMet also provides LIFT paratransit rides at a reduced rate to those who rely on this service, and we will continue charging for those rides as half the cost that the federal government designated for paratransit service.
TriMet will also work to expand our Hop retail network to make it easy for people to buy Hop card and reload value. Visit myhopcard.com to learn more about Hop.
Pases de un día, pases de un solo viaje y pases de 2 horas y media van a aumentar. Las tarifas mensuales y los topes de viajes para los pasajeros que usan tarjetas Hop Fastpass™ NO aumentarán
El miércoles 24 de mayo de 2023, la junta directiva de TriMet aprobó un aumento de tarifas que entrará en vigencia el 1 de enero de 2024. Este es nuestro primer aumento en la tarifa básica para adultos en más de una década la cual no afectará los topes de las tarifas mensuales. Esto significa que los pasajeros frecuentes que usan nuestra tarjeta Hop Fastpass™ no verán aumentar sus costos mensuales de transporte, a pesar de este aumento en la tarifa.
Se anticipa que este aumento, incrementará los ingresos que TriMet recauda de las tarifas en $5.3 millones de dólares al año, pero se espera que esta cantidad aumente a medida que se expanda el servicio y se recupere el número de pasajeros. Las ganancias ayudarán a estabilizar el futuro financiero de TriMet y permitirán la implementación del plan de servicio Forward Together, que se desarrolló con la comunidad, para aumentar los servicios en un 30% sobre los niveles de la pandemia. La expansión del servicio brindará a la comunidad, especialmente a aquellas con ingresos bajos, más acceso a servicios de transporte, llegando así a más trabajos y lugares.
“Si bien nunca es fácil aumentar los costos, la decisión de la junta, como administradores financieros de TriMet y los dólares públicos que recibimos, es importante para nuestro futuro y el transporte en nuestra comunidad”, dijo Sam Desue Jr, gerente general de TriMet. “Ayudará a pagar por Forward Together, poniendo más autobuses en más áreas, llevando a las personas a donde lo necesiten y brindando una inversión en nuestro sistema de tren ligero al actualizar mecanismos y equipos de décadas de antigüedad que están llegando al final de su vida útil. “
Las tarifas de TriMet aumentarán en enero de 2024
Las siguientes tarifas de TriMet aumentarán a partir del 1 de enero de 2024:
Boleto de 2 horas y media para adultos: aumenta 30 centavos, pasa a $2.80
Boleto de Ciudadano Honorable de 2 horas y media: aumenta 15 centavos, pasa a $1.40
Boleto para jóvenes de 2 horas y media: aumenta 15 centavos, pasa a $1.40
Boleto de un solo viaje de LIFT paratransit: aumenta 30 centavos, pasa a $2.80
Un pase de todo el día seguiría siendo el costo de dos boletos, aumentando en consecuencia:
Pase de un día para adultos: aumenta 60 centavos, pasa a $5.60
Pase de un día para Ciudadano Honorable: aumenta 30 centavos, pasa a $2.80
Pase de un día para jóvenes: aumenta 30 centavos, pasa a $2.80
Los topes de tarifas mensuales no aumentarán
Cuando las tarifas de TriMet aumenten en enero de 2024, el tope mensual de las tarifas para los que usan nuestra tarjeta Hop seguirá siendo igual: $100 para adultos y $28 para jóvenes y ciudadanos honorables que pagan tarifa reducida. Eso significa que los pasajeros alcanzarán el tope de tarifa mensual más rápido y viajarán sin costo adicional más temprano en el mes. Según el aumento de la tarifa, los que pagan la tarifa de adulto alcanzarían los $100 después de comprar 17,5 pases de un día, y los que pagan la tarifa reducida para jóvenes o ciudadanos honorables alcanzarían los $28 después de 10 pases de un día.
Las tarifas de TriMet no han aumentado con los costos; otros servicios básicos han subido
TriMet retrasó el aumento de nuestra tarifa base desde el 2012. Sin embargo, desde entonces, TriMet ha visto aumentar nuestros propios costos y la gente ha pagado más por todo, desde gasolina hasta el agua, basura, servicios públicos, comestibles y otros servicios esenciales.
En la última década, las tarifas del servicio del agua aumentaron un 110%, las tarifas de alcantarillado aumentaron más del 50% y las tarifas de recolección de basura aumentaron más del 20%. El ajuste por costo de vida (COLA) del Seguro Social aumentó en más del 20%.
Entre el aumento de costos que ha experimentado TriMet, el costo de las llantas para nuestros autobuses aumentó un 30% en la última década. El precio promedio de un galón de combustible fue un 18% más alto el año pasado que en el año fiscal 2018 y, desde mediados de 2021, hemos visto un aumento del 10% al 25% en los precios de muchas de las piezas y componentes de nuestros autobuses y trenes.
El aumento de las tarifas de TriMet de enero de 2024 representará un aumento del 12%.
Asociaciones comunitarias y tarifas reducidas para ayudar a mitigar el aumento de las tarifas
TriMet entiende que un aumento de tarifa puede ser un desafío para aquellos con ingresos bajos y limitados que dependen del transporte público. Además de mantener los topes mensuales para aquellos que usan nuestra tarjeta Hop al mismo costo actual, TriMet continuará con nuestro programa de tarifas reducidas y otros programas de Access Transit (acceso de transporte) que han estado ayudando a las personas que tienen dificultades financieras. Esos programas han estado vigentes durante años y TriMet trabajará para ampliar aún más la divulgación y la disponibilidad de los programas.
El programa de tarifa reducida para ciudadanos honorables (Honored Citizen) de TriMet permite que las personas mayores de 65 años, con discapacidades y con bajos ingresos, viajen diariamente por la mitad del costo de la tarifa de un adulto y hasta con un descuento del 72% del costo mensual de transporte. Además de eso, aquellos que califican para la tarifa reducida en función de su nivel de ingresos reciben un mes gratis de viajes cuando se inscriben en el programa o se vuelven a inscribir. En TriMet, trabajaremos para expandir la promoción de la tarifa reducida para que más personas estén al tanto de los ahorros. También estaremos explorando extender el registro de este programa de dos años a tres años.
Desde julio de 2018, cuando TriMet amplió el programa de tarifas reducidas a quienes ganan hasta el 200% del nivel federal de pobreza, más de 50,000 personas se han inscrito. Obtenga más información en trimet.org/income (en inglés).
Desde 2013, los programas Access Transit de TriMet han brindado asistencia con tarifas y subsidios de alivio de tarifas a organizaciones 501(c)(3) elegibles sin fines de lucro que trabajan directamente con la comunidad. Brindamos tarifas a más de 100 organizaciones a un costo reducido o sin costo, para que puedan ponerlas en manos de quienes las necesitan. Desde 2015, TriMet ha proporcionado a esos socios comunitarios más de $12,2 millones en tarifas. Obtenga más información en trimet.org/accesstransit.
Si bien la tarifa de TriMet para jóvenes entre los 7 a 17 años es la mitad del costo de una tarifa para adultos, también tenemos programas para escuelas secundarias que brindan a los estudiantes tarifas gratuitas o con descuento. Obtenga más información en trimet.org/summerpass. Jóvenes de 6 años y menores viajan gratis con un adulto acompañante.
TriMet también ofrece viajes de LIFT Paratransit a una tarifa reducida para aquellos que dependen de este servicio, y continuaremos cobrando por esos viajes a la mitad del costo que el gobierno federal designó para este servicio. TriMet también trabajará para expandir nuestra red minorista de tarjetas Hop y así, facilitar su compra y recarga. Visite myhopcard.com para obtener más información.
The University of Washington research will investigate the effects of second-hand drug smoke on and around transit across the Pacific Northwest
As the rampant rise in illicit fentanyl use fuels a public health crisis across Oregon, TriMet has begun working with researchers and other transit agencies to better understand its impacts. Researchers from the University of Washington are beginning a study to detect, monitor and assess the effects of second-hand fentanyl smoke on and around transit systems. TriMet, alongside University of Washington researchers, Sound Transit in the Seattle metro area and other transit agencies, will use the findings to determine new best practices around addressing drug use.
With illicit fentanyl surging—evidenced by Oregon’s 41% increase in overdose deaths in 2021—use of it has occasionally spilled over to shared spaces, including public transit. By better understanding the second-hand exposure levels of smoked substances, such as illicit fentanyl and other opioids like heroin, TriMet hopes to determine ways to better understand and curb the risks associated with them.
As of right now, there is little in the way of concrete data about the health effects of second-hand fentanyl smoke or its impacts on a self-contained area, like a bus or train. While there have been studies about the risk of exposure to first responders, this is the first study of its kind to delve into public transit.
No smoking allowed
Smoking is not allowed on TriMet, whether in our buses or trains, or on rail platforms, at transit centers or in elevators. Those caught smoking face a citation or exclusion. Smoking covers everything from tobacco, to electronic cigarettes and vape pens, to any other smoking substance.
To further discourage smoking, particularly smoking drugs on our transit system, in early 2022, we changed the TriMet Code to include non-criminal violations of laws or ordinance as actions prohibited on TriMet. Since possessing a small amount of drugs and drug use, are now categorized as a violation under Oregon law (ORS Chapter 153), by prohibiting violations to those activities, TriMet supervisors can further address the behavior, with a citation or exclusion, rather than needing to call in police. This supports our efforts to reimagine public safety on transit by ensuring a safe system for all without always relying on a police response.
Airing out vehicles when fumes noted
To help address the issue of second-hand drug smoke before a study could be conducted, TriMet enacted our own process in April 2022, to safeguard our riders and operators. Since then, operators have been stopping trains and buses whenever there is a report of smoking or smoke fumes on board, whether the source is known or unknown and whether it smells like drug smoke or not. Operators then open the doors for a period to ventilate the vehicle before it continues in service.
If you smell something strange or noxious, or if you believe a substance was smoked on your train, notify your operator. You can do this by locating the operator intercom box and pressing the red button. Your report will be passed along to our Operations Command Center, and a Supervisor will be dispatched to the train when it stops at the next station.
Science-driven approach
Science will drive our approach as we work in the coming months in partnership with the University of Washington, Sound Transit, other participating transit agencies and the Amalgamated Transit Union, which represents TriMet’s frontline employees. With reports of illicit fentanyl use spiking in communities across the country, the research could set an example for all public transit agencies industry wide.
The new research will partially rely on air samples collected by devices strategically placed on buses and trains. Researchers will also use sampling kits to determine whether the substance smoked was an opioid or something else. TriMet operators, supervisors and other frontline staff do not have the ability or the expertise to determine with accuracy whether fumes are coming from illicit fentanyl or another source.
Expanded police missions, more Safety Response Team members
At TriMet, we believe in taking a comprehensive approach to issues that affect our system. We plan to continue this approach in the future by adding to the personnel you see on or around the transit system. In September, TriMet’s Transit Police Division began expanding its public safety missions to more stations and neighborhoods, following positive feedback from the community, transit riders and TriMet employees.
We’ve also more than doubled the number of staff on our security teams over the past 15 months, with more growth planned in the coming year. Our Customer Safety Supervisors, TriMet staff who conduct code enforcement including no smoking and having valid fare, will increase to at least 46 this year. Our contract Transit Security Officers and Customer Security Officers now number more than 175. And, our Safety Response Team that connects people on and around our transit system with social services, provides first aid and reports serious concerns to emergency responders, will expand to 60 members this year. By using a comprehensive approach, working closely with regional partners and better understanding the scope of drug-related issues, we hope to keep the system safe and welcoming for all.
Man accused in Gresham attack banned permanently from TriMet
TriMet has issued a lifetime exclusion to Koryn Kraemer—the second lifetime ban in our agency’s history. Kraemer, age 25, has been charged in the brutal attack on the Cleveland Avenue MAX Station platform. The attack occurred in the early morning hours of Jan. 3, 2023, when MAX service was not running. Kraemer was delivered the lifetime exclusion in jail, where he is being held without bail as he awaits prosecution on a charge of assault in the second degree. Previously, only Jared Walter, a prolific sex offender, had been banned from TriMet property for life. That permanent exclusion took effect in April 2019.
Long-term exclusions issued to two others
Brianna Workman is now banned from TriMet for the next five years. Workman, age 32, is currently being held in jail without bail on charges of attempted assault in the first degree, along with other charges. TriMet security cameras captured Workman push a child onto the MAX tracks from a busy platform at the Gateway Transit Center on the evening of Dec. 26, 2022.
Dustin Rasmussen is excluded for five years, through Dec. 31, 2027. Rasmussen, age 22, admitted striking a Transit Security Officer with handlebars detached from a bike on March 24, 2022, at the Gateway Transit Center. The security officer was transported to the hospital. Rasmussen was charged with assault in the second degree and unlawful use of a weapon, along with other charges.
“TriMet remains committed to safety and security on our system, and we support a collaborative approach with state and local leaders to address the societal issues at the root of the incidents occurring on our system and in the communities we serve,” said TriMet General Manager Sam Desue, Jr. “While we rely on our district attorneys to prosecute crimes, we are taking steps within our authority to increase safety, which includes banning people from our system who attack others and potentially pose future threats to our riders and employees.”
Long-term exclusions added to TriMet Code in September 2017
TriMet first added our long-term exclusion policy to the TriMet Code—our rules for operating and riding our transit system—in September 2017. Documented under TriMet Code 28.18, it allows the general manager to issue a long-term exclusion in excess of six months and up to a lifetime ban, under specific circumstances. The general manager can direct an individual receive a long-term exclusion if, based on a preponderance of evidence, they have committed “a serious physical offense” against another person on the TriMet system. A serious physical offense is one that is classified as either a Class A misdemeanor against another person or a felony against another person under Oregon law. A serious physical offense also includes any attempt to commit a felony against a person and any conduct prohibited by TMC 28.15 D(6)(c), which specifically calls out the offense of spitting or propelling other bodily fluids on an employee.
Chronic offenders now eligible for exclusions of up to two years
The policy and TriMet Code were further updated on January 13, 2023, to authorize the general manager to impose stiffer penalties for prohibited conduct on the transit system. The amendments address behavior-based conduct only, and do not change penalties for fare evasion.
The General Manager can issue an exclusion of up to two years to a chronic offender, which is defined as a person with three or more violations for conduct within a 90-day period. Long-term exclusions are specific to behavior that disrupts the safety and order of the transit system and do not apply to simple fare evasion.
Holding people accountable for criminal and inappropriate behavior
Long-term exclusions strengthen TriMet’s ability to help keep our riders and employees safe, by holding people accountable for inappropriate, threatening or dangerous behavior on our property and vehicles. While the district attorney’s office determines punishments for crimes, those punishments don’t always include long-term exclusions from TriMet.
These changes are part of a larger effort to make it safer to work on and ride the transit system, while addressing nuisance issues to improve the customer experience. It’s important to note that any person issued a long-term exclusion, including a lifetime ban, is entitled to a hearing to contest it. Also, they have the right to appeal the ongoing exclusion annually to show changed behavior or rehabilitation.
Simple fare evasion not eligible for long-term exclusions
Long-term exclusions are issued for behavioral offenses only, not fare evasion. TriMet began decriminalizing fare evasion back in 2017. Efforts to improve the handling of fare evasion include:
June 2017: Decriminalized fare enforcement by proposing a change in state law to allow TriMet to resolve fare evasion citations directly rather than citations automatically going to the court.
December 2018: Changed TriMet Code to clarify that fare evasion only is not a crime and have discontinued routine fare checks by police.
February 2022: Made additional changes to TriMet Code to further clarify that police do not conduct random fare checks by specifically prohibiting police from asking individuals for proof of fare. (Police officers may continue to be present during fare inspection activities by TriMet personnel and investigate other offenses, assist in identifying a person and intervene when needed for the safety of TriMet staff and riders. Only under the General Manager’s direction may Transit Police Officers temporarily conduct fare checks in response to specific security concerns.)
TriMet continuously works to improve how we provide transit service to the communities in our 533-square-mile service district. We’ve worked with community partners, riders and employees to identify solutions that focus on diversity, equity, access and inclusion. Learn more about our efforts to ensure fair access to our transit system at trimet.org/equity.
Public feedback will help inform fare increase proposal that TriMet Board of Directors is expected to vote on in May 2023
TriMet wants to hear from riders and the community about a possible fare increase that would go into effect on Jan. 1, 2024. The TriMet Board of Directors has asked staff to formalize a fare increase proposal for consideration at its May 24, 2023 business meeting. Public feedback gathered online and in person will help inform the final proposal that is brought before the Board.
No increase in base fare in more than a decade
While costs have gone up for fuel, water, garbage, utility, grocery and other services and products over the last decade, TriMet’s adult fare has stayed the same—at 2012 prices. That’s despite inflation and a 37% increase in the cost of running and maintaining our transit system. Among the rise in costs we’ve experienced, TriMet’s average cost for a gallon of fuel was 18% higher in the past year than in fiscal year 2018, and since mid-2021, we’ve seen a 10%-25% increase in prices for many of the parts and components for our buses and trains.
After holding off on increasing our adult fare for as long as possible, a fare increase will help stabilize our financial future so that TriMet can continue providing the transit service our community relies on.
January 2024 fare increase proposal
Currently, the proposal calls for the following increases to begin Jan. 1, 2024:
Adult 2 ½ Hour Ticket: up 30 cents to $2.80
Honored Citizen 2 ½ Hour Ticket: up 15 cents to $1.40
Youth 2 ½ Hour Ticket: up 15 cents to $1.40
LIFT paratransit Single Ride Ticket: up 30 cents to $2.80
An all-day pass would still be the cost of two tickets, increasing accordingly:
Adult Day Pass: up 60 cents to $5.60
Honored Citizen Day Pass: up 30 cents to $2.80
Youth Day Pass: up 30 cents to $2.80
The proposal calls for no change to monthly and annual fares.
Public outreach and engagement underway through Feb. 25, 2023
TriMet is kicking off a robust outreach and engagement effort to gather feedback about the fare increase proposal and how it might impact riders. There are a number of ways to share your thoughts, including an online survey, which is available in 13 languages, and in-person and virtual open houses.
Sign up to speak at the public forum at the start of a monthly meeting of the TriMet Board of Directors.
People will also be able to testify after the reading of the fare increase ordinance at the Board’s April 26, 2023 meeting and during the public forum at the Board’s May 24, 2023 meeting.
TriMet Customer Service 4012 SE 17th Ave, Portland, OR 97202
Community partnerships, reduced fares help people afford transit
TriMet understands a fare increase may be challenging for those on low and limited incomes, and we will continue our reduced fare program and other Access Transit programs that have been helping people who are struggling financially for years now.
TriMet’s Honored Citizen reduced fare program allows seniors, those with disabilities and those who earn a low income to ride daily for half the cost of an adult fare, and up to 72% less a month. For frequent riders who use day passes five days a week, our Hop Fastpass™ monthly fare capping means they pay just 70 cents a day for the calendar month. In addition to that, those who qualify for the Honored Citizen reduced fare program based on their income level receive a free month of rides when they register for the program or re-enroll annually.
Since July 2018, when TriMet expanded the reduced fare program to those making up to 200% of the federal poverty level, more than 46,000 people have signed up. Learn more at trimet.org/income.
Since 2013, TriMet’s Access Transit programs have provided fare assistance and fare relief grants to eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofit and community-based organizations. We give more than 100 organizations fares at a reduced cost or at no cost, so they can get them into the hands of those who need them, along with other support the organizations provide. Since 2015, TriMet has provided those community partners with more than $12.2 million in fares. Learn more at trimet.org/accesstransit.
While TriMet’s youth fare for those ages 7 through 17 is half the cost of an adult fare, we also have programs for high schools to provide students free or discounted fares. Learn more at trimet.org/accesstransit. Youth age 6 and under ride free with an accompanying adult.
Timeline for proposed fare increase
The first reading of the ordinance for the fare increase proposal will occur at the TriMet’s Board’s April 26, 2023 meeting, with a second reading and vote at its May 24, 2023 meeting. All public comment will be shared with the Board before then.
Why fares are required
TriMet fares are an important source of funding for operations, and it is why we are able to provide extensive transit service across a 533-square-mile section of Clackamas, Multnomah and Washington counties nearly 22 hours a day, 7 days a week.
TriMet more often hears from riders who want more service, rather than free service. In addition to operations, fares help pay for the buses and trains you ride in, the maintenance of those vehicles and the tracks our MAX trains run on, the shelters and benches at stops and stations, the information about when your bus or train will arrive, and so much more.
Ordinance for January 2024 fare increase will first go before the Board in April 2023, with Board action in May 2023
The TriMet Board of Directors has asked TriMet staff to formalize a fare increase proposal for its consideration that, if approved, would take effect Jan. 1, 2024.
At a Board retreat on Nov. 9, 2022, several Board members cited the need for TriMet to increase fare revenue and overall revenue to provide financial stability for transit operations, as well as address the inflationary increases in the cost of operating the transit system. With a majority of the Board voicing support for a 2024 fare increase, Board President Linda Simmons directed TriMet staff to move forward on the process to bring a formal fare increase ordinance before the Board. The first reading of the ordinance will occur at the Board’s April 26, 2023 meeting, with a second reading and vote at its May 24, 2023 meeting.
The Board directed staff to further develop a package of fare changes, for its consideration, that include the following increases:
Adult 2 ½ hour ticket—increase 30 cents to $2.80
Honored Citizen 2 ½ hour ticket—increase 15 cents to $1.40
Youth 2 ½ hour ticket—increase 15 cents to $1.40
LIFT paratransit single ride—increase 30 cents to $2.80
If approved in May 2023, any fare changes would take effect January 1, 2024.
Title VI analysis and mitigation
TriMet will conduct a Title VI fare equity analysis to determine what impacts a fare increase would have on people of color and those who live on a low income, and we’ll work with the community to determine opportunities to mitigate such impacts.
Public outreach and engagement
TriMet will launch a public outreach and engagement campaign beginning in December 2022, to inform and educate riders, employees and community members about the proposed fare increase. This will include hosting several in-person and virtual events and an online portal to capture feedback. The public is also invited to attend TriMet Board of Director meetings, and they can sign up to provide comment during the public forum at the start of each meeting. People will also be able to testify after the reading of the ordinance at the April 26, 2023 meeting and during the public forum at the Board’s May 24, 2023 meeting. The Board will vote on the ordinance at the May meeting. All public comment will be shared with the Board. More on the public engagement will be announced in early December.
