Five Portland Streetcar stations on the West Side are scheduled to close Feb. 1 on a trial basis, as Streetcar staff evaluate whether a consolidation of stations can improve safety and service for riders. The stations are located at points along the streetcar lines that pose collision risks, contribute to the slowing of the streetcar and traffic, or where there are other stops nearby.
The five stations scheduled for closure are:
- NW 10th & Everett
- NW 11th & Everett
- SW 10th & Stark
- SW 1st & Harrison (both directions)
Three of the five stations pose safety concerns, including a risk of collision with cars or because they are placed on a slope, making it difficult for streetcars to start and stop.
When Portland Streetcar began service in 2001, it was the first of the country’s modern streetcar systems. To serve the needs of passengers at that time, stations were placed every 2-3 blocks. As the system has grown, ridership has grown threefold, making speed and reliability even more important. In addition, much of the feedback from Streetcar riders over the years has centered on the need to increase speed, frequency and reliability.
On newer Streetcar lines, stations are being placed every 3-5 blocks to increase system speed. For the trial station closures, only stations located within two blocks of another station will be closed.
Streetcar staff will be evaluating the station closure impacts on speed, reliability and safety throughout the spring before determining next steps. During the closures, Portlanders have multiple ways to provide feedback, by emailing or calling (503) 222-4200. Feedback can also be provided via social media on Twitter and Facebook.
