MAX is one of two light rail systems in Portland; the other is the Portland Streetcar. MAX trains are larger and faster, and cover greater distances than the streetcar system.
Table of contents |
2 Mode of operation 3 Rolling stock 4 Train frequency 5 External links |
There are currently two MAX lines, with a third line under construction.
The central terminus for all lines is Pioneer Square. Although the Blue Line is technically one line, its routes and construction history effectively divide it into two lines (Eastside and Westside).
The MAX system operates in several different modes.
There are currently two models of MAX cars.
The original Type 1 cars were manufactured by Bombardier Corporation and featured a raised floor with steps at the doors. The interior design was similar to that of a bus.
With the opening of Westside MAX in 1998, new Type 2 cars made by Siemens were introduced. These cars have a low-floor design, digital readerboards, and open floor plan. The floor is level with streetside platforms, greatly simplyfing access and eliminating the need for wheelchair lifts.
The trains operate in one- or two-car consists. MAX trains can't be longer than two cars because Portland's downtown blocks are only about 200 feet (61 m) long. The MAX cars are about 90 feet (27.5 m) long, so a train consisting of more than two cars would block intersections.
Lines
* Length shown does not include a shared segment with Eastside MAX
Line Name
Color
Outlying Terminus
Opened
Length
# Stations
Eastside
Blue
Cleveland Ave (Gresham)
1986
15 mi (24 km)
29
Westside
Blue
Hatfield Government Center (Hillsboro)
1998
18 mi (29 km)
20
Airport
Red
Airport
2001
5.5 mi (8.9 km)*
4
Interstate
Yellow
Expo Center
2004
(planned)5.8 mi (9.3 km)*
10
Totals
44.3 mi (71.3 km)
63
Mode of operation
Rolling stock
Designation
Manufacturer
First Used
Max Capacity
# in Fleet
Type 1
Bombardier
1986
256
26
Type 2
Siemens
1998
261
52
Type 3
Siemens
2004
(planned)unknown
17
(on order)