September 26, 2005

Bus shelters and most MAX stations will now be smoke-free

TriMet launches no smoking at bus shelters & MAX stations

In the interest of our riders' health, all bus shelters and most MAX stations will become smoke-free where signs are posted.

TriMet crews today began installing no-smoking signs at some of the 1,090 bus shelters and many of the MAX stations where smoking is prohibited. Installation will be complete by the end of the year.

"We are making our transit system healthier for our riders, many of whom are vulnerable to secondhand smoke, particularly babies, children, pregnant women, seniors and those with health issues," said TriMet General Manager Fred Hansen.

Secondhand smoke contains over 4,000 chemicals, including formaldehyde, cyanide, carbon monoxide and arsenic. At least 43 of these chemicals are known to cause cancer in humans.

"The American Lung Association of Oregon applauds TriMet for its leadership in protecting citizens from the health threats caused by secondhand smoke. Everyone has the right to breathe clean air, but smokefree air is even more crucial for people with lung disease, such as asthma," says Sue Fratt, CEO.

TriMet is one of a handful of transit properties across the country that prohibits smoking at its transit stops. TriMet has received numerous requests and complaints over the years regarding people smoking inside shelters and at MAX stations.

MAX stations that share its platform with a city sidewalk will not be affected by the no-smoking policy.

While signs are being posted, TriMet will use the opportunity to educate riders about the policy change. The no-smoking rule is enforceable by a warning, $94 fine and/or exclusion. Enforcement takes effect on January 1, 2006.