TriMet News

Tyler Graf

(VIDEO) TriMet’s tunnel under Washington Park to close for weeklong MAX improvements project
Sept. 7–13, MAX Blue and Red Line service to be replaced by shuttle buses between Sunset Transit Center and Providence Park

One of Oregon’s most impressive transportation accomplishments of the latter 20th century, TriMet’s Robertson Tunnel, will be the site of a series of MAX improvements in September, requiring a seven-day disruption between Southwest Portland and Beaverton, including through the three-mile-long tunnel.

From Sunday, Sept. 7, through Saturday, Sept. 13, the Robertson Tunnel MAX Improvements Project will close a section of the MAX Blue and Red lines between Sunset Transit Center and Providence Park MAX Station. Shuttle buses will replace MAX service, arriving at stops near the closed stations about every five minutes on weekdays and every seven minutes during the weekend.

The MAX Blue Line will operate on its regular schedule between Hatfield Government Center and Sunset Transit Center west of the tunnel, and between Providence Park and Cleveland Avenue east of it. Likewise, the MAX Red Line will operate on its regular schedule between Hillsboro Airport/Fairgrounds and Sunset Transit Center west of the tunnel, as well as between Providence Park and Portland International Airport east of it. TriMet’s MAX Green, Orange and Yellow lines will continue running as scheduled during the project.

In some cases, regularly scheduled bus service may offer a faster or more direct option. Riders can begin planning their trips now at trimet.org/planner.

Robertson Tunnel MAX Improvements: What riders need to know

While TriMet has worked to minimize the disruption as much as we can, some trips may take up to 45 minutes longer than usual. We encourage riders traveling to and from Portland International Airport to be aware of the extra travel time and to plan ahead.

We apologize for the disruption and appreciate your understanding as crews work on a series of reliability projects in and around the Robertson Tunnel. Riders will want to keep an eye out for signs and TriMet personnel, including our On-Street Customer Service staff, directing them to shuttle bus stops.

Here’s what you need to know to get a head start on your planning:
- MAX Blue and Red lines will be disrupted between Sunset Transit Center and Providence Park from Sunday, Sept. 7, through Saturday, Sept. 13. The disruption will affect riders traveling to Portland International Airport during these dates, as shuttle buses can fill up faster and have less space for luggage than MAX trains.
- Some MAX riders who travel through the tunnel may want to use alternative means of transportation or work from home during the disruption if they can.
- Shuttle buses will arrive about every five minutes during weekdays and every seven minutes during the weekend.
- Bus lines 20-Burnside/Stark and 58-Canyon Rd may experience higher ridership, as they may be used as an alternative to MAX service.
For questions or help planning your trip, contact TriMet’s Customer Support Center at 503-238-RIDE (7433), available Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Track-to-wire improvements

The Robertson Tunnel MAX Improvements Project will improve the MAX tracks and overhead wire system, keeping rides reliable and comfortable for years to come.

During the seven-day disruption, crews will complete two major projects. One will replace about a mile of the overhead wire used to power MAX trains, including the installation of a new wire tensioning system just west of the tunnel. We installed the same system on the MAX Blue Line in East Portland in spring 2025. These upgraded systems replace the older weight stacks, used to prevent wires from sagging as they expand in high temperatures. They apply about 3,000 pounds of consistent pressure to keep overhead wires taut in all conditions, improving reliability and reducing maintenance needs.

The second project will replace about 700 feet of track between Washington Park and Goose Hollow. Crews will also replace rail ties and perform deep cleaning inside the tunnel. This work is vital, as it targets a part of the system that’s been in service for nearly 30 years.

Making Transit Better

The Robertson Tunnel, finished in 1998, was a huge engineering achievement, with features that are still unmatched today. Among the most notable, the Robertson Tunnel is home to the deepest transit station in North America, Washington Park MAX Station. It serves several destinations at the surface level – 260 feet above, the equivalent of the length of a football field. Destinations include Washington Park itself, along with the Oregon Zoo, World Forestry Center and Hoyt Arboretum. Two popular gardens are also accessible: the Portland Japanese Garden and the International Rose Test Garden.

The tunnel stretches three miles, seamlessly connecting Portland’s Goose Hollow to the Washington County suburbs of Beaverton and Hillsboro. It’s an example of how TriMet has made transit better over the decades, through improvements that ensure the region’s transit investments continue serving riders for years to come.

Over the past year, these have included the completion of our extension of the MAX Red Line, A Better Red, in August 2024, and the introduction of our newest MAX trains, the Type 6s, in January 2025. We have also completed rail crossing improvements and installed the upgraded overhead wire tensioning system on the MAX Blue Line in East Portland. This June, we also began a months-long project to renovate the NE 82nd Ave MAX Station platform.

Thank you for your patience as we invest in a smoother, more reliable transit system for the future. To learn more about the Robertson Tunnel MAX Improvements Project and how it may affect your ride, visit trimet.org/improvements.
August 13, 2025
(VIDEO) Neighbors nurture community by taking TriMet from ‘Tabor to Town’

Mount Tabor Neighborhood residents aim to set an example by driving less and frequenting Downtown Portland businesses more often

Mary Lou Hennrich has a message for anyone hesitant to board a TriMet bus or MAX train: Just do it! It’s simple, safe and fun.

It’s a message that her neighbors in the Mount Tabor Neighborhood have embraced. They now gather every month near the Line 15-Belmont/NW 23rd Ave bus stop, located at Southeast 71st Avenue and Yamhill Street, for an activity they call “Tabor to Town.” The group of about 15 ride the bus to experience different Downtown Portland destinations together.

While the idea originated with Mary Lou, it was sparked by Portland Mayor Keith Wilson’s State of the City address in May 2025, where he voiced his optimistic message, “the state of Portland is rising.” During the address, he recounted his vision of “transportation-oriented villages,” suggesting that Portlanders could support this by leaving their cars at home.

Mary Lou Hennrich (right) walks from a bus stop in Downtown Portland with the rest of the Tabor to Town group.

Inspired, Mary Lou reached out to her friends and neighbors with the idea: Let’s take a TriMet bus and travel to Downtown Portland to support local businesses. Given Tabor to Towns’ simplicity and community-focused nature, Mary Lou is now challenging other neighborhoods to follow their lead.

“I’d love to get more people on the bus, more people going downtown, more people comfortable using public transportation,” Mary Lou says. “Let’s challenge other neighborhoods – Laurelhurst, Sellwood, Irvington, Buckman – because we really need to support Downtown businesses.”

Riding ‘is really fun’

Riding the bus is nothing new to Mary Lou.

She began riding a Rose City Transit bus to Glencoe Elementary School in kindergarten. Even then, it was an opportunity to build connections. She always rode with a classmate, and for the two of them, the bus opened up a world of possibilities.

Now, as a retired public health administrator turned volunteer and advocate, Mary Lou wants to promote public transportation as an ideal means of travel for people of all ages. Most of the neighbors who participate in Tabor to Town are older adults, many of whom have limited experience riding. But that hasn’t stopped them. It has only added to the enjoyment.

The feedback she has heard from neighbors has been positive. While some may have been reluctant before, now they say, “This is really fun.”

Connecting communities, supporting businesses

With Line 15-Belmont/NW 23rd, residents of the Mt. Tabor Neighborhood are brought together in multiple ways. For June’s Tabor to Town outing, Mary Lou planned for the group to dine at the Midtown Beer Garden by Expensify, located at the corner of Southwest Fifth Avenue and Harvey Milk Street.

She organized the outing before she knew that her neighbor Matt Allen was the beer garden’s project manager, a fact she only discovered after he received one of her flyers. He emailed her afterward with the news. They were both thrilled by the coincidence.

Matt is also an avid TriMet rider, and he views the benefits of Tabor to Town from a business perspective. Having lived in Portland for 13 years, he views TriMet as the easiest way to get around Downtown Portland. For him, public transportation is about building a sense of community.

“It’s really easy to hop on a bus and head Downtown,” he said. “And guess what, that same bus will take you back home!”

Mayor Keith Wilson joins the Tabor to Town group at their June meet-up.

Matt was at the food carts to greet the Tabor to Town group as they arrived for June’s outing, adding one more neighbor to the group. Even Mayor Wilson, the inspiration for the group, showed up to show his support for the initiative.

Affordable transportation centered on you

Whether your destination is a night out, sporting event, appointment or something else entirely, TriMet offers a more affordable alternative to driving, saving you money on gas and parking. As the Tabor to Town group has discovered, it’s a great way to get to know the city. After all, Downtown Portland is served by more than 30 bus lines, many of which are Frequent Service, arriving every 15 minutes or more often. Additionally, all five MAX lines serve areas across the city’s Central Business District. You can plan your trip and view the real-time locations of buses and MAX trains at trimet.org.

Improving the riding experience is at the center of TriMet’s multi-year efforts to boost safety, security and cleanliness. In the past year alone, these initiatives have included the creation of a centralized Security Operations Center and the introduction of 28 blue-light security phones to MAX stations and transit centers, with additional installations planned for the future. Riders can also act as our eyes and ears. We encourage you to call 503-238-RIDE (7433) if you see inappropriate activities.

We also want to know how your ride went. Your feedback is valuable! It helps us understand our performance and identify areas for improvement, thereby enhancing your experience. Scan the QR code displayed on most buses and trains, and follow the prompts to provide us with instant feedback.

If Mary Lou has any feedback to share, it’s that taking a break from driving feels good. She knows from experience that it connects you to your city and neighbors, and she wants to share that message with others. “C’mon, get out,” she says. “Talk to your neighbors.”

July 29, 2025
(VIDEO) Next stop preservation: TriMet’s first MAX train car destined for operating museum this summer
TriMet’s pioneering light rail vehicle will find new life at the Oregon Electric Railway Museum

After more than 38 years of service and 2.2 million miles traveled, one of TriMet’s oldest MAX trains is nearing its next stop – retirement.

TriMet is donating Type 1 vehicle “101” to the Oregon Electric Railway Museum, a move that will preserve the first MAX train car ever manufactured. The vehicle will join the museum’s vast collection of electric trolleys and streetcars, but with a twist sure to delight TriMet diehards and rail fans across the state.

In recognition of the donation and the vehicle’s legacy, TriMet is bidding farewell to MAX car 101 at our Ruby Junction Rail Operating Facility on Tuesday, July 8. The car will be transported to the museum later this month. This ensures the MAX car remains in the Willamette Valley, available for in-person experiences. The museum is located in Brooks, Ore., about 38 miles south of Portland via Interstate 5.

The donation also comes with a special goal in mind: to keep the car running. That’s the long-term mission of the museum, which features a mile-long track that runs through its property. This ensures that a vital piece of Portland’s transit history continues to roll into the future!

Type 1s roll on through 2025

The donation comes as we phase out our fleet of Type 1s and introduce the new Type 6s, our most technologically advanced MAX trains yet. If you’re interested in catching a Type 1 before they disappear, you’re in luck. A few trains will continue serving riders through the start of 2026.

If you’re unsure about which type of MAX train you’re boarding, just look for the number at the top of the train. Another rule of thumb – if there are stairs, it’s a Type 1. Because the stairs make the Type 1s inaccessible to some, they are always coupled with either a Type 2 or Type 3 MAX car that has low floors.

Most Type 1s are being sent to Radius Recycling, where they’re being turned into materials like rebar that will be used for local construction projects. Preserving at least one of the cars will keep a vital piece of the state’s rail transit history in the region for generations to come.

“This is a great opportunity to give back to the community and ensure the legacy and history of light rail is recognized,” TriMet’s Project Manager for Vehicle Engineering Joe Taylor said. “The Type 1s were designed and built in 1983 and went into service in 1986. They have been a fantastic workhorse for the agency, and we are excited to partner with the Oregon Electric Railway Museum to preserve one for future generations.”

The donation fulfills a longstanding goal that has been more than 30 years in the making, museum leadership said

“This donation continues the story of Portland’s transit history at our museum for future generations to enjoy,” Oregon Electric Railway Heritage Society Secretary Mark Kavanagh said.

Showcasing public transportation

The Oregon Electric Railway Museum’s home is the 62-acre Powerland Heritage Park, a campus of 14 museums reflecting the preservation, restoration and operation of historic equipment. The museum has a collection of over 30 pieces, including streetcars, interurbans and electric freight locomotives, representing not just Portland but also other cities in the U.S., as well as Europe, Asia and Australia.

“As soon as the first Type 1 light rail vehicle started operation in 1986, we were making plans for the museum to acquire one upon retirement,” said Greg Bonn, the museum’s former director and son of its founder.

The museum plans to make modifications to its overhead trolley wire to allow the donated MAX car to operate. In the near term, the museum will display the vehicle near the museum’s trolley depot at Powerland Heritage Park during the Great Oregon Steam-up, scheduled for July 26-27 and August 2-3.

After Steam-up, it will be moved to the museum’s vehicle barn for occasional tours, where it will join two original 1904 Council Crest Portland Streetcars and the last streetcar purchased by the Portland Traction Company in 1932.

The museum is open on Saturdays in the summer months, along with special events with trolley rides. The Oregon Electric Railway Historical Society, an all-volunteer 501(c)3 non-profit corporation, also operates the Willamette Shore Trolley between Lake Oswego and Portland. For more about the museum, visit: museum.oregontrolley.com
At a Glance

TriMet’s Type 1 trains

You may have noticed, TriMet’s original trains are unlike any in our fleet. Here are a few examples of what make the Type 1s standout as the distinctive trains that they are.

They had a different manufacturer than the rest of TriMet’s MAX fleet. The Type 1s were built by Bombardier, while all the others were built by Siemens.

The Type 1’s boxy design is reminiscent of Belgian trains manufactured by BN Constructions Ferroviaires et Métalliques, some of which are also displayed at the Oregon Electric Railway Museum. Bombardier modified an existing BN design for the Type 1s as part of a joint venture between the two companies.

The Type 1s are notable for having high floors and stairs. Before the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act in 1990 and later the introduction of low-floor trains, TriMet used devices at our stations that lifted people in mobility devices onto trains with the operator’s assistance.

The Type 1s have more seating than any other MAX train.

The Type 1s were completely analog. Even the destination displays had to be cranked by hand!
July 8, 2025
(VIDEO) TriMet to keep you moving during months-long NE 82nd Ave MAX Improvements Project
Regular MAX service resumes Tuesday, June 10, with riders using a new temporary platform

A major remodel of the NE 82nd Ave MAX Station begins Tuesday, June 10, but don’t sweat it – MAX trains will keep serving the station this summer and fall!

Starting June 10 – when regular MAX Blue, Green and Red Line service returns – you’ll use a temporary platform while we renovate the station. This work will continue until the end of 2025.

To finish the temporary platform, crews used the June 8-9 MAX disruption to build stairs to it. You’ll access the temporary stairs on the southbound side of Northeast 82nd Avenue, across the street from the permanent stairway, which will be closed during the station’s renovation.

Renovating the MAX station will significantly improve it, focusing on safety, accessibility and maintainability. The station opened in 1986 as part of the original MAX line between Downtown Portland and Gresham. Over the years, train traffic has tripled as the MAX system has expanded, first with the MAX Red Line in 2001, followed by the MAX Green Line in 2009. Along with the station’s proximity to the bustling Northeast 82nd Avenue corridor, the expansion of the MAX system has resulted in the station becoming the most active one along Interstate 84.

Rider tips

TriMet has been working for months on ways to keep riders moving during the NE 82nd Ave MAX Improvements Project. On Tuesday, June 10, and Wednesday, June 11, TriMet will have On-Street Customer Service representatives at the station to help riders with the transition. Signs are also posted directing people to the new stairs.
- The temporary stairs are located near the southbound lanes on the west side of Northeast 82nd Avenue.
- The elevator, near the northbound lanes on the east side, will remain in service throughout construction.
- Remember, the elevator is now equipped with access-control devices. Tap or scan your fare at the reader to open the doors. There is no charge for using the elevator.
- The stop for bus lines 72-Killingsworth/82nd Ave, 77-Broadway/Halsey and 287-Blue Eastside has been moved about 65 feet to the north, closer to the intersection of Northeast 82nd Avenue and Northeast Jonesmore Street. A new bus shelter has also been installed.
- MAX trains will serve the station on their regular schedules.
If you have questions, contact TriMet Customer Service at 503-238-7433 (RIDE) between 7:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Why renovate the NE 82nd Ave MAX Station?

During construction, crews will completely repave the platform’s surface and add new tactile strips on the edge of the platform.

The existing shelter will undergo a complete renovation. This includes re-roofing to protect riders against the elements and a thorough refurbishment to maintain its original design. The architectural details and period-specific elements will be preserved to respect the historical consistency of the original MAX station.

In addition to the renovation, a new shelter and windscreens will be constructed on the east side of the platform, increasing the amount of weather protection available. This expansion aims to improve comfort and convenience, especially during inclement weather.

The current stairway, which has been in use for more than 38 years, will be completely rebuilt. This reconstruction will ensure structural integrity and enhance user safety and convenience. Design considerations will also include accessibility standards to facilitate ease of use for our riders.

A decommissioned building located at the platform’s eastern end, has already been dismantled and removed. It was a remnant of the original MAX system, used to lift people in mobility devices into high-floor trains. It became obsolete with the introduction of low-floor trains in the 1990s. This removal is crucial for improving visibility and sight lines, enhancing overall safety and our ability to maintain the station.

Making Transit Better

Public transit matters in our region. While the Portland metro area is the 23rd largest in the United States, we have the 12th highest transit ridership. Per capita, it’s the 9th highest. That’s why TriMet doesn’t rest when it comes to improving transit.

Over the past year, we have begun introducing Type 6 trains, 30 of which will be in service by 2026. They are replacing our original MAX trains, many of which have been operated continuously since 1986, with some logging more than 2 million miles!

Meanwhile, the recently completed East Burnside MAX Improvements Project boosted the resiliency of the MAX Blue Line east of the Gateway Transit Center. A new wire-tensioning system installed during the project will help trains keep moving in extreme heat, and a new rail crossing has created a smoother ride with less jostling of the rail.

These are just some of the ways we continue to improve our system’s safety, cleanliness and reliability. We thank our riders for their understanding as we work to make transit better.
June 9, 2025
TriMet improves access, reliability and safety at MAX elevators along I-84
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.
May 27, 2025
(VIDEO) Major renovation of NE 82nd Ave MAX Station begins this June
MAX Blue, Green and Red lines disrupted June 8-9, as crews finish installation of a temporary platform to keep riders moving during months-long improvement project

The NE 82nd Ave MAX Station is getting a major makeover! Starting this June, crews will begin the months-long process of modernizing the nearly 40-year-old station.

But first, a two-day disruption, from Sunday, June 8, through Monday, June 9, is needed to prepare the area around the station for significant construction activity beginning later this summer. Crews will use the two days to install a stairway on the southbound side of Northeast 82nd Avenue, across the street from the regular entrance to the MAX station.

Once the temporary platform opens, the new stairs will allow riders to access it. The elevator will remain operable during most of the renovation project. A platform-level pathway will connect the elevator to the temporary platform.

When trains return to regular service on Tuesday, June 10, there will be no access to the regular NE 82nd Ave MAX Station as crews perform renovations there through the end of the year. While construction is taking place, riders will use the temporary MAX platform to board and exit trains. This will allow MAX trains to continue to serve the station during construction.

Two-day MAX disruption: June 8-9

The June 8-9 disruption will affect MAX Blue, Green and Red lines. Shuttle buses will replace MAX service between the Oregon Convention Center MAX Station and the Gateway/NE 99th Ave Transit Center. The shuttle buses will depart every five minutes for most of the day. However, trips may take an extra 30 minutes, and we encourage riders to plan their trips now by going to trimet.org.

If you have questions about arrival times or getting around during the disruption, look for TriMet’s On-Street Customer Service team, wearing green vests. You can also call or text TriMet’s Customer Support Center at 503-238-7433 (RIDE) daily from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Temporary platform to keep riders moving

Crews have already constructed a temporary MAX platform west of the station. It will open to riders on June 10 and offer many of the same amenities, including signage, lighting and a shelter. Most important, the platform will keep riders moving during construction.

The stairs leading down to the temporary platform will be on the opposite side of Northeast 82nd Ave, adjacent to the southbound lanes and across the street from the entrance to the MAX station.

The renovation represents a major investment in the MAX system, making it safer, more comfortable and more durable. The station is not only one of our oldest, it is also vital in connecting East Portlanders to jobs, education, healthcare and services. This project will help revitalize the station while laying the groundwork for future development and investment in the surrounding community.

The renovation will include:
- Stairway construction: The existing stairway will be rebuilt.
- Shelter renovation: The current shelter will be re-roofed and refurbished, preserving its historic design. A second shelter will be added to the east side of the platform.
- Lift building removal: The non-operational lift building at the end of the platform will be removed completely to improve sight lines. Constructed in the 1980s, these buildings formerly housed devices that lifted people in mobility devices into MAX trains. They became obsolete when low-floor trains were introduced in the 1990s, and many have already been removed from the system.
- Barrier replacement: The existing bollard and cable barrier on the edge of the platform will be replaced with a guardrail for improved safety.
Demolition of the lift building has commenced without affecting MAX service.

Additional improvements will include upgraded signage and lighting. The mural by acclaimed artist Alex Chiu on the west end of the platform, will be preserved.

Making Transit Better

TriMet appreciates our riders’ patience as we work to improve community connections. As a busy transit hub in the heart of Northeast Portland, the NE 82nd Ave MAX Station links thousands to jobs, services and healthcare.

The NE 82nd Ave MAX Improvements Project is part of systemwide modernization efforts aimed at providing a more accessible, welcoming and reliable transit experience for the Portland region – today and into the future. This includes the introduction of our newest trains, the Type 6, which started service earlier this year.

Other significant projects have included our recently completed East Burnside MAX Improvements Project and A Better Red MAX Extension and Reliability Improvements Project, which extended the MAX Red Line 10 stations west.

Improvements like these benefit everyone! Safe, reliable and comfortable public transit means less congestion, cleaner air and safer roads. It also means a thriving economy, giving people access to work, education, stores, services and recreation.

More information about the project and service impacts is available at trimet.org/improvements.
May 21, 2025
TriMet prepares to keep riders moving during major renovation of NE 82nd Ave MAX Station
Limited service impacts during construction’s first phase, starting, Tuesday, April 15 with the building of a temporary platform

The first phase of a major renovation of the NE 82nd Ave MAX Station will begin on Tuesday, April 15, with the construction of a temporary MAX platform that will open later this summer.

Construction of the temporary platform marks the start of a broader effort to improve one of the oldest and most heavily used stations in the MAX system. While riders may notice construction taking place near the station for the next few weeks, there will be no disruption to MAX Blue, Green or Red Line service during this first phase of the project.

Construction begins with a temporary platform

Initial work will focus on constructing a temporary platform located just west of the existing station. Once built, the temporary platform will have lighting, a weather shelter and signage. It will be connected to the main station’s elevator via a walkway. It is expected to open in June and allow TriMet to maintain uninterrupted MAX Blue, Green and Red Line service during demolition and construction of the NE 82nd Ave MAX Station, which will last through the end of 2025.

Minimizing impacts on riders

The temporary platform will allow the station renovation to proceed with minimal rider disruption. Crews will need to demolish significant parts of the station to rebuild it, which can only take place if the station is closed. However, the project will require a few short disruptions this summer and fall. TriMet will inform the public of those in advance.

Station updates focus on accessibility and design

Renovations to the NE 82nd Ave MAX Station are designed to enhance safety, accessibility and the overall rider experience while preserving key cultural elements. Planned upgrades include:
- New concrete surfacing
- A rebuilt stairway
- A refurbished shelter that maintains its original design
- The addition of a second shelter to match the original shelter
- Updated lighting and signage
- The removal of the inoperable mobility-device lift building, which has not been used since the mid-1990s
- The replacement of outdated barriers with a modern guardrail
The mural by local artist Alex Chiu, located next to the elevator, will be preserved as part of TriMet’s commitment to celebrating community identity.

Strengthening community connections

Located at the intersection of transit and opportunity, the NE 82nd Ave MAX Station is important in connecting East Portlanders to jobs, education, healthcare and services. This project will help revitalize the station while laying the groundwork for future development and investment in the surrounding community.

All construction activity will take place at the track level between the Union Pacific Railroad tracks and I-84. There will be no changes to the station’s street-level entrance or elevator access during the construction of the temporary platform.

The project is part of systemwide modernization efforts aimed at providing a more accessible, welcoming and reliable transit experience for the Portland region today and into the future. This includes the introduction of our newest trains, the Type 6, which began earlier this year.
April 14, 2025
(Video) A fresh future: cleaning focus sets TriMet record, thrills riders

TriMet crews work day and night — cleaning trains, removing graffiti and scrubbing stations — to keep the system inviting

At the Cleveland Ave MAX Station in Gresham, TriMet Service Aide Matt Sunshine, equipped with the typical tools of the cleaning profession, steps onto a MAX Blue Line train.

Service Aides like Matt have about 10 minutes to wipe down surfaces, sweep out trash and mop the floors before vehicles depart. At the end of each MAX line, the trains have a brief layover to give operators time for a break. The Service Aides are trained to work quickly and purposefully. After all, this is the cleaners’ time to shine.

It’s a fast-paced job to make the riding experience as comfortable as possible, but Matt has found more than just work here — he’s found a sense of purpose and community that has kept him with TriMet through changing times. Starting as a temporary cleaner, he has become a part of TriMet’s expanding efforts to spruce up buses, trains and facilities.

“I got laid off from my previous job as a cook. When I was hired by TriMet, I was in the first group of COVID cleaners,” Matt says. “When COVID started cooling down, the restaurant wanted people back, so they called me, and I said, ‘no, I like it at TriMet too much. Sorry, I’m staying here.’”

He says the great environment and his dedicated and helpful co-workers have inspired him for five years. Knowing that riders appreciate his work — often thanking the team for what they do — is also a bonus. These factors are a major reason 2024 was a record-setting year for sprucing up the system.

Riders are taking notice of the more welcoming station areas and the heightened attention to maintaining a safe and inviting experience. Joan R. said she had stopped riding for a time but decided to give it another go after learning about TriMet’s efforts around cleanliness and safety. The riding experience exceeded her expectations.

“I used MAX yesterday, and it is a 180-degree difference — it is secure and clean,” Joan wrote in an email. “I am so impressed and pleased with the changes. I now have a HOP card!”

TriMet is not letting up! Riders have told us that cleaner, brighter and more vibrant vehicles and stations make them feel better about riding. We understand. Over the first four months of 2025, crews have notched 792 reports of pressure washing and 1,096 for track cleaning, setting us on track for another record-setting year.

Multiple cleaners, one mission

With a service area spanning 533 square miles, TriMet’s Facilities Management team and other crews play a critical behind-the-scenes role in keeping the region’s transit system clean, safe and running smoothly. In 2024, the department introduced the Clean Team and delivered major systemwide improvements — often under tight timelines and challenging conditions.

Matt explains what his days look like as a Service Aide, addressing the onboard needs of trains when they reach the end of the line — the last station on each line, where operators take breaks.

“Every time a train comes in, I hop on board,” Matt says. “I sweep up the trash. I wipe down the seats. I mop the floors. I make it smell good if it needs to be freshened up a little bit, and make it a more pleasant riding experience.”

TriMet’s Service Workers deep clean vehicles during the overnight hours.

All told, TriMet’s cleaners performed 36,982 activities at the end of all the MAX lines in 2024. Additionally, cleaners pressure-washed stations 3,170 times in 2024 and cleaned litter from the tracks 2,561 times.

Trains are cleaned throughout the day, and both trains and buses are cleaned once they’re done carrying passengers. Service workers, who work overnight between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m., can give vehicles more attention by wiping windows, scrubbing off mud and performing more detailed work. Meanwhile, the Clean Team, made up of TriMet employees, focuses on maintaining cleanliness and safety at stations and surrounding areas.

Various teams, one mission

In addition to the increased presence of safety and security personnel across TriMet’s transit system, our various cleaning teams help maintain a safe and welcoming environment for all riders.

Keeping our system orderly is a shared responsibility. Riders can help by using trash cans at stations and on board, avoiding feeding pigeons and reporting inappropriate behavior when you see it. To report a non-urgent safety, security or cleanliness concern 24/7, text or call our hotline at 503-238-7433 (RIDE) or submit a report at trimet.org/security. Every small action helps keep our transit system safer and more welcoming for everyone.

April 11, 2025
(VIDEO) Improvements coming this spring to TriMet’s MAX Blue Line east of Gateway

A two-week project, April 27-May 10, will improve the durability of TriMet’s original rail line

Mark your calendars. Improvements are coming to the MAX light rail system this spring.

TriMet will perform a series of upgrades on the MAX Blue Line east of the Gateway/NE 99th Ave Transit Center from April 27 through May 10. The two-week-long East Burnside MAX Improvements Project will require crews to work on and above the tracks to replace and upgrade equipment for durability, extra reliability and a smoother ride.

It’s not a stretch to say that extreme heat can vex the light rail system, causing overhead wires to sag. Instead, we turn to a system that applies tension to keep the wires taut as temperatures creep upward. Crews will install a new version of the system during the project as the summer months approach.

The overhead wires will receive further attention elsewhere, with crews planning to replace about 8,000 feet of them. The two weeks of construction will give crews time to make the necessary upgrades to the overhead wire system, replace a rail crossing, and improve other elements of the track.

Moving riders around construction

TriMet has plans in place to help riders navigate the disruption. We have worked to limit the impacts as much as possible, including reducing the disruption during the second week.

Week 1 (April 27-May 3): Shuttle buses will serve riders between Gateway/NE 99th Ave Transit Center and Cleveland Ave MAX Station – the end of the MAX Blue Line in Gresham.

Week 2 (May 4-10): The disruption area will be shortened. Shuttle buses will serve riders between E 172nd Ave and Cleveland Ave MAX stations only.

Remember to plan by going to trimet.org/planner. If you plan on riding during the disruption, make sure to include future travel dates. Riders will want to plan an extra 30 minutes for their trips. You can also sign up for service alerts to be delivered directly to you via text message or email by going to trimet.org/email.

Staying ahead of Mother Nature

The overhead wires are like the circulatory system of MAX trains, pumping cleaner, renewable electricity into every vehicle. During the East Burnside MAX Improvements Project, TriMet’s crews will retrofit some overhead wires to make them more resilient to extreme heat and boost their durability. TriMet will do this by upgrading systems that have served riders for decades.

The overhead wires need to be tight, like a stretched rubber band, for trains to move at normal speeds. However, when temperatures soar above 90 degrees, “thermal expansion” causes the copper wires to droop. That’s why TriMet uses weight stacks, which weigh a ton and are connected to the wires, to keep the wires tight in extreme heat. The system works well, with the weights dropping toward the ground when temperatures rise. However, it has become so hot in recent years, including a record-setting 116 degrees in 2021, that there have been times when the weights have hit the ground.

By introducing the new, automated overhead wire tensioning system in some areas, TriMet will replace the weight stacks that have been in use. Enter a new, automated overhead wire tensioning system. The new system applies more pressure, about 3,000 pounds of it overall.

Rebuilding the eastbound and westbound rail crossing at Northwest Eleven Mile Avenue in Gresham will give motorists and MAX riders a smoother ride through the intersection. This current crossing was installed decades ago and is in heavy use. In addition to autos and MAX Blue Line trains, every train that enters and leaves our Ruby Junction Rail Operating Facility travels over the crossing. New track parts, including 50-100 rail ties, will also be added during construction.

Cleaning will also be a priority during the project. Crews will clean closed stations, remove litter and graffiti and clear brush on the east end of the MAX Blue Line when the trains aren’t running. Riders can expect to see more TriMet employees near closed stations and shuttle bus locations to help them make their connections. Look for people wearing green vests (On-Street Customer Service), blue vests (Ride Guides) or TriMet uniforms. We will also have extra safety and security personnel available to support riders.

Minor traffic impacts

Crews will sometimes need to work in the roadway. Auto traffic will be limited to a single lane near Northwest Eleven Mile Avenue and East Burnside Street, and traffic controls will be in place to help drivers navigate the work. Additionally, two four-hour street closures will be needed for rail welding, restricting all vehicular access to Northwest Eleven Mile Avenue between 11 p.m. and 3 a.m.

MAX improvements

TriMet works to keep our transit system in the best condition possible through regular upkeep and maintenance. This is why the MAX Blue Line, the second oldest light rail line on the West Coast, has provided millions of trips since opening in 1986.

As much as we try to work during overnight hours or in ways that minimize rider impacts, some work can only be done when we stop service altogether. We thank our riders for their patience and understanding as we prepare to kick off the project.

In recent years, MAX improvements projects have resulted in rail improvements through Downtown Portland, upgrades to rail crossings in Gresham and the recent introduction of our Type 6 MAX trains earlier this year.

For information about the upcoming disruption, go to trimet.org.

March 26, 2025
This spring break, take TriMet! The easiest, most affordable way to start your vacation

TriMet’s MAX Red Line offers a fast, affordable and hassle-free way to get to and from Portland International Airport

Spring break is right around the corner. It’s time to dust off your luggage, review your travel itinerary and plan your trip to Portland International Airport with TriMet.

This year, 820,000 people are expected to pass through PDX between Friday, March 21, and Sunday, April 6, according to the Port of Portland. With this being one of the busiest travel periods of the year, TriMet’s “train-to-plane,” using the MAX Red Line, will be the most convenient and affordable option for tens of thousands of travelers.

With money a major consideration for all travelers, no one wants spring break to turn into spring broke.

Taking TriMet can save you anywhere from $50 to $150 on travel. On average, a one-way-trip on the train to PDX is at least $40 less than using a rideshare,* taxi or airport shuttle. And when it comes to parking for the duration of spring break, it costs about $90 more to use PDX’s economy parking lot than it does to take the MAX Red Line. And from there, the prices go up. economy parking at PDX starts at $15 per day, while long-term parking is $24 per day.

But with TriMet, you can beat the crowds and save a considerable amount of money.

Riding MAX to PDX

This will be the first spring break since the MAX Red Line was extended 10 stations west to Hillsboro Airport/Fairgrounds in August 2024. The extension was the culmination of TriMet’s A Better Red MAX Extension and Reliability Project. It means more people than ever before now have the opportunity to take a one-seat ride to catch their flights, saving time and money in the process. The Red Line also serves the Rose Quarter Transit Center, a connection point for all MAX lines, and the Gateway/NE 99th Ave Transit Center, a connection point for MAX Blue and Green lines. Many of the Red Line’s 36 stations are also within a few feet of dozens of bus stops, making transfers convenient.

To plan your trip in advance to see if you need to make any connections, go to trimet.org/planner. You can also track the location of your train or bus in real time at trimet.org.

Ride and save

The average taxi or rideshare trip from PDX to Downtown costs between $30 and $45 (before tip). But on MAX, it’s only $2.80 for Adults – or $1.40 for Youth or Honored Citizen fare. That’s roughly the cost of the surcharge you would pay for a rideshare. Plus, travelers can’t beat the location of the Portland International Airport MAX Station, which is only 150 feet from the baggage claim area.

MAX Red Line operates for nearly 20 hours everyday, including late at night and early in the morning. But if your flight arrives or departs during the hours when MAX Red Line trains aren’t running, TriMet provides bus service in place of MAX overnight. This gives you another option to get to and from Portland International Airport, but there may be times when this service isn’t running. To find out more at trimet.org/MAXbus.

New Hop card machines

Hop cards are now available at TriMet’s MAX stations and transit centers as TriMet moves to phase out disposable paper tickets. Cards can either be bought, for a one-time $3 fee, and then loaded with fare, or an existing card can be loaded with fare at any of the machines. Everyone traveling will need their own card, so remember to purchase and load fare onto each card before tapping to ride.

Tap your credit card or phone

You can also pay by tapping your credit or debit card or your mobile wallet against the green Hop reader before boarding. Taps from a credit or debit card or mobile wallet are only good for Adult fare, and you will need to use one payment device per family member. Always remember to tap, as your Hop card, debit/credit card or mobile wallet will act as your proof of fare.

Travel by train or bus

For travelers who prefer a train-to-train option, TriMet can also get you to Union Station to catch Amtrak. MAX Green, Orange and Yellow lines, as well as various TriMet bus lines, serve Amtrak’s Union Station. You can also connect with the Greyhound or FlixBus bus stops, located on Northwest Station Way, by bus and MAX Blue and Red lines.

Here to help

To plan your trip, go to trimet.org/planner. If you have questions, reach out to TriMet Customer Service by calling 503-238-7433 (RIDE) between 7:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. daily. Real-time arrival information is available 24 hours a day.

On-Street Customer Service staff and security will be stationed at the airport to help answer questions or assist riders. Look for On-Street Customer Service in green vests and Transit Security Officers in bright yellow and black uniforms.

MAX Red Line

Did you know the MAX Red Line was the first train-to-plane connection on the West Coast? It was built as part of a public-private partnership that spurred major development and economic growth, leading to the development of Cascade Station, home to popular retail destinations like Ikea.

Since 2001, the MAX Red Line has seen hundreds of thousands of travelers off on memorable trips and welcomed just as many back to the comforts of home. Often, it’s the first thing visitors see when they exit the airport. It remains one of our most used MAX stations, with thousands of trips made every day.

For MAX Red Line schedules and maps, or to sign up for Service Alerts for the MAX Red Line, visit trimet.org/schedules/maxredline.

*The average cost of an 11-mile trip via rideshare between Downtown Portland and PDX is about $40

March 19, 2025