PORTLAND -- With winter conditions fast approaching, TriMet officials warned riders that they should be prepared for delays and even possible cancellations if and when snow or ice coats Portland roads.
Since conditions can change quickly, TriMet said riders should check for updates before they leave their homes through one of these options:
* Check the Service Alerts page on the TriMet Web site
* Call 503-238-RIDE (7433) and press "2" for Service Alerts
* Check KGW-TV or listen to local radio stations for updates
TriMet officials also noted that their special TransitTracker™ estimates the next arrivals for buses and trains in real time, based on each vehicle's location and average speed. However, when many vehicles are off-route or significantly delayed, it cannot make accurate arrival predictions.
In addition, TransitTracker will inform riders about route cancelations or, in some cases, how far away the next vehicle is.
Operation plan:
Buses will follow normal routes as long as the streets are safe for travel. But if there is a significant accumulation of snow, ice or freezing rain, some buses will be put on snow routes and others may be canceled.
The MAX Light Rail, WES Commuter Rail and Portland Streetcar will operate normally unless there is a problem with the tracks, switches or the overhead wires, which can get jammed with ice. When there is a major disruption, service updates will be posted on the reader boards at MAX and WES stations, in addition to alerts via web and phone. Shuttle buses will be used during MAX disruptions, whenever possible.
“If we expect MAX, WES or Streetcar service will be interrupted for a significant period of time, we'll send out shuttle buses to carry riders between stations. That means you'll go to the station like you normally would, but you'll board a shuttle bus instead,” a TriMet spokesperson explained. “Unless otherwise indicated, the buses will stop at all stations your train would serve during its normal hours of operation.”
Special tips for TriMet riders:
* If there's no traffic going by your bus stop, walk to a stop on a busy street.
* If your bus stop is in the middle of a hill, walk to the bottom where the operator can safely stop.
* Stand back from the curb until the bus comes to a complete stop. Buses can slide sideways in slippery conditions.
* Keep in mind your bus may not pull all the way over to the curb, to avoid getting stuck.
* Dress warmly in case you have a long wait.
