TRIMet

TriMet, formally the Tri-County Metropolitan Transportation District of Oregon, is the regional public transit authority serving the Portland metropolitan area. It operates in Multnomah, Washington, and Clackamas counties and coordinates transit services for the region. The agency is overseen by a board of directors appointed by the participating counties and cities.

TriMet provides bus service across the metropolitan area and operates the MAX light rail system, which currently includes five lines that connect downtown Portland with suburbs and key activity centers. In addition to light rail, TriMet operates the Westside Express Service (WES) commuter rail, running between Wilsonville and Beaverton. The system is organized around a Frequent Network of high-frequency routes and a network of transit centers with park-and-ride facilities.

Fares and technology are supported by the Hop FastPass system, a contactless payment option that also accommodates mobile and traditional ticket options. Fares are valid on TriMet buses, MAX trains, and the WES corridor, with transfers allowing continued travel within a specified time window.

History and scope: TriMet was formed in 1969 to consolidate mass transit after the decline of private operators in the region. It began operating a bus network and later expanded into light rail, launching the MAX system in the late 1980s and continuing to add lines and services over the years. The agency has expanded its role to include multiple rapid transit options, a commuter rail line, and ongoing efforts to upgrade infrastructure and services to meet regional demand.

Future planning emphasizes continued expansion, modernization, and coordination with local governments to improve accessibility, reliability, and coverage across the Portland metro area.