Work begins on improvements to several Eastside MAX stations

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October 22, 2009

Projects funded with federal stimulus dollars

TriMet is beginning work this week 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 TriMet's E 162nd Ave MAX station. Credit: Thomas Le Ngo

TriMet is using federal stimulus funds to repaint six MAX stations, starting at the E 162nd Ave station in Gresham.

Some Eastside MAX stations have had limited refurbishments over the years and are in need of painting. Federal stimulus funds allow TriMet to paint 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.

Upcoming projects

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."

Several other stimulus projects on the eastside are in the works in the coming months:

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.

About TriMet stimulus funds

TriMet was awarded $53.3 million in federal stimulus funds to be used to fix failing infrastructure, make the transit system more robust and put Oregonians to work. TriMet's 31 stimulus projects are projected to fund about 740 direct jobs and 1,100 indirect jobs.

For more information visit TriMet: http://trimet.org/news/releases/oct22_morestimulus.htm