Watch: Final phase of TriMet’s MAX Blue Line Improvements project coming May 15-23 in northeast Portland
May 14, 2021
TriMet is working to make transit better
TriMet
Editor s Note: TriMet is making some significant improvements to their MAX Blue Line. Below is a press release prepared by Tyler Graf of TriMet outlining major parts of the project. DCL
The curved rail running along I-84 near the Northeast 33rd Avenue overpass has long been an important piece of TriMet’s MAX system. It’s a stretch that not only carries a lot of trains, it does so as they pick up and maintain speed. From Saturday, May 15, through Sunday, May 23, TriMet will replace rail and other components of our trackway along this stretch as part of the final phase of the MAX Blue Line Improvements project.
Apr 6, 2021
TriMet’s MAX Blue Line Improvements project is underway now through May 23, 2021. Multiple improvements are happening throughout our oldest light rail line. From replacing rail, just 20 feet in some areas and more than 2,600 feet in the curved trackway west of the Hollywood Transit Center, to adding new concrete rail ties in that area, this will improve the durability of the trackbed and make the ride smoother. We’re making other improvements as well, including replacing two heavily used switch machines at Gateway Transit Center and rebuilding rail crossings inside the transit center where buses cross MAX tracks.
Much of the work is being done in overnight hours or in a way that it doesn’t disrupt MAX service. However, there will be some days where trains will run on a single track in both directions on the west side of the MAX system. There will also be a few times, stretching from two days to nine days, when shuttle buses will replace trains in areas.