EAST COAST v. WEST COAST: #SummerOfHell Transit Response That Doesn’t Crush the Soul

(ABOVE: photo via TriMet facebook)

As we continue our slog through the #SummerOfHell #TrainPain here in the New York/New Jersey area, where Hoboken has become a curse word to Garden State commuters, let’s take a quick glance out to the Left Coast.

In Portland, Oregon, triple-digit high temps have put considerable strain on the transit infrastructure, sparking mechanical failures and delays system-wide on the area’s TriMet train lines.

UPDATE: All MAX lines running 10 mph slower in higher speed areas due to 90+ temps. Trains experiencing major delays throughout the system.

— TriMet (@trimet) August 1, 2017

The challenges have been exasperating, for commuters and transit workers alike:

We’ve had an extremely challenging day and our service isn’t where it should be. If you’re riding (or trying to ride) you know this already.

— TriMet (@trimet) August 2, 2017

So much so, that TriMet sent out the following text message to its riders this morning:

“TriMet is not inspecting fares or expecting fare payment today due to continuing network issues. Also, stay hydrated & plan for delays due to extreme temps today.”

Imagine that—because the train isn’t running on time, you don’t have to pay for it.

That’s what happens when transit is treated like a service, rather than a revenue stream…

Anyway, enjoy your commute home tonight.

(H/T: hMAG Oregon Bureau)

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