August 11, 2005

TriMet exhibits transit through time on MAX & buses

A traveling historical photo gallery is appearing soon on a MAX train or bus near you.

TriMet, in partnership with the Oregon Historical Society, is illustrating the rich history of transit through 20 unique photos from the Portland region dating back to the late-1800s. Long-time residents and history buffs may recognize transit service under some former names: The Portland Traction Company, Rose City Transit, and now TriMet, which celebrated its 35th anniversary last December.

"The photos remind us transit has played a long and important role in the planning, development and livability of this region," said Fred Hansen, TriMet General Manager. "Transit is part of the fabric that binds our community together."

Starting in July, photos began being installed on 102 MAX trains and 638 buses, featuring historic transit modes, including: trolley cars, cable cars, streetcars, ferry boats and buses. Captions identify the era in which the photos were taken. The photos are being displayed on MAX and buses in rotating displays of five each.

The Oregon Historical Society provided many of the photos, while others came from TriMet's own archives.