Neils "note"

MAX @ 25

On Friday, we celebrated with many TriMet veterans and partners the 25th anniversary of the opening of the line that started it all -- the Banfield light rail project. It was terrific to share the event with many TriMet retirees and project veterans. 25 years ago I was on the trains, with tens of thousands of our neighbors -- and a new era was born in public transportation.
We were #3 in developing light rail -- now there are over 30 cities with light rail systems. Here in Portland -- the opening of the Banfield changed people's perspectives almost overnight -- and ridership has grown ever since. The first year on the 15 mile Banfield system -- we carried a respectable 19,000 plus on an average weekday. Today we carry 60,000 on that same alignment! On our 52 mile system -- we now carry over 130,000 riders each weekday -- pretty remarkable! Our light rail system works because it is supported by a great bus system -- and most importantly -- a great workforce here at TriMet. Our light rail investments have paid off over time -- in terms of ridership, regional development, and a more cost-effective TriMet operation. Congratulations to everyone who contributed to the success of our first light rail line 25 years ago. Congratulations to all who continue that success today! Best Neil