TriMet’s Morrison-Yamhill MAX Improvements project reaches a milestone on Sunday, May 14 as the Portland Streetcar resumes regular service on 11th Avenue. The street remains closed to auto traffic and MAX service remains adjusted through Saturday, May 20 as crews complete track and intersection improvements on SW Morrison and Yamhill streets at 11th and 1st avenues.
This work is being done on the oldest section of the MAX system that has been in service more than 30 years and is similar to the improvements made during two projects last year (1st Avenue/Rose Quarter). The switches and special track work at Southwest 11th Avenue connect to what was originally the end of the first ever MAX line, which went into service in 1986.
Crews have removed old wooden ties in the 11th Avenue area, put in more durable material, installed new switch machines and track, and worked on drainage improvements. During the final week of the project they’ll be finishing up work on the signal system; replacing broken asphalt, brick and Belgium Block; and preparing the rails to restore MAX service across 11thAvenue. At 1st Avenue, crews have installed new sections of curved rail on Yamhill and Morrison streets. The main work there will wrap up May 16.
The projects reflect TriMet’s reinvestment into the MAX system to increase the resiliency of the system and keep trains running on time. The improvements also will make the ride smoother for TriMet customers and Portland Streetcar riders, as well as benefit pedestrians, cyclists and auto drivers.
