TriMet’s Lloyd MAX improvements project begins this weekend

TriMet will begin a two-week project Oct. 10 on one of the most frequently used sections of the MAX system as part of TriMet’s Lloyd MAX Improvements project.

The project kicks will last through Oct. 23, with regular service returning on Oct. 24.

The work will take place east of the Lloyd Center/NE 11th Ave MAX Station, in an area where eastbound trains begin picking up speed as they enter the exclusive right of way next to I-84. This is a well-traveled area, carrying MAX Blue, Green and Red Line trains. It’s also among the oldest sections of the light-rail system, opening to the public in 1986 and seeing more traffic over the following 35 years as the MAX system has grown.

Building a better MAX system

Work will take place around MAX tracks located to the east of the Lloyd Center Station. Principally, the work will center on replacing tracks and improving drainage, efforts that will boost the overall resiliency of the MAX system.

Over the decades, runoff from heavy rain has spilled directly into the trackway and pooled, carrying with it leaves, branches and other debris that can end up softening wooden rail ties more quickly. Crews will install two new drains to catch the roadway runoff and direct the water away from the tracks. Crews will also replace about 250 wooden ties with more durable ones made of concrete. These improvements will not only help keep MAX trains moving but they’ll also create a smoother ride.

As part of the project, TriMet will be upgrading its signals system and replacing a switch machine. Crews will also be performing rail grinding, picking up litter and replacing the tactile pavers on closed platforms, all of which is work that’s best performed when trains aren’t running.