October 22, 2009

Eastside MAX Station Improvements

Stimulus funds will help improve safety and security

TriMet is beginning work on the first of several stimulus-funded projects aimed at improving rider and pedestrian safety, security and convenience at Eastside MAX stations.

Repainting the E 162nd MAX Station
Crews power wash chipping paint in advance of
painting the shelter roof at the E 162nd Ave
MAX station. Photo: Thomas Le Ngo

Station repainting

Some Eastside MAX stations have had limited refurbishments over the years and are in need of painting. Crews will repaint six stations over the next six weeks, weather permitting. After 162nd Ave station, painting will occur at the E 102nd Ave, E 122nd Ave, E 181st Ave, Ruby Junction/E 197th Ave and Gresham Central stations.

Crossing upgrades

TriMet is also upgrading various street and rail crossings at 11 light rail stations along Eastside MAX beginning in November. The work includes installing bollards, chains and railings to channel pedestrians to help them be more aware of train movement. Crews will also install signs or pavement markings such as "Look Both Ways," "Stop Here," and "Danger No Trespassing."

Bike improvements

  • Replacing and adding bike lockers at six stations, increasing bike locker parking from 36 bikes to 72 bikes
  • Refurbishing and reopening secured bike cage at Gresham Central, holding 30 bikes
  • Work scheduled to start in November

Access control and illumination

  • Installation of fencing, lighting and signage to improve safety, security and fare compliance at Gresham Central MAX station
  • Scheduled to start in December

Tactile paver replacement

  • Replacement of damaged and worn tactile pavers that alert riders of trackway at five stations

Job retention

The contractor for station painting is Aadland Evans Contractors, Inc. Subcontractors include A2 Fabrications, Suell Painting and COAT Flagging, all of which are part of TriMet's Disadvantaged Business Enterprise program.

Federal stimulus funds from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) have retained three jobs and prevented nine layoffs among the contractor and three subcontractors working on this project.