00972175

Component

http://onlinepubs.trb.org.../circulars/ec058/ec058.pdf

The 5.8-mi Interstate MAX Light Rail Transit (LRT) Project, extending from the Rose Quarter due north to the Expo Center, is currently under construction and is targeted to open for service in September 2004. As part of the former South/North Corridor Study Project, a draft environmental impact statement for the project was completed in 1998. The final environmental impact statement along with preliminary engineering was completed for the Interstate MAX as an independent project in 1999. The majority of the Interstate MAX alignment is designed and built with ballasted track within the existing right-of-way along the middle of North Interstate Avenue. The alignment starts to divert from the main roadway at Argyle Street, the beginning of the Expo Segment. The Expo Segment crosses major roadways including Columbia Boulevard, Union Pacific Railroad, Schmeer Road, Highway 99W, and Victory Boulevard, as well as the Columbia Slough, a tributary of the Willamette River. During the last 40% of the final design, there was much controversy regarding the vertical LRT alignment crossing Schmeer Road and Victory Boulevard, the crossing of Highway 99W, and the Highway 99W southbound to Victory off ramp. This paper discusses at-grade versus grade separation options through analyzing the special crossing situations, the selection process perspective, LRT operations, and project aesthetics and economy. A comprehensive analysis of all project elements ultimately favored grade separation with aerial structures from Columbia Boulevard until north of Victory Boulevard. The alignment evaluation and decision making process provide valuable experience to future planning and design of similar facilities.

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E-C058

English

p. 459-469

2003-11

Transportation Research Circular

Experience, Economics, and Evolution--From Starter Lines to Growing Systems. 9th National Light Rail Transit Conference

Figures (3) ; Photos (2) ; Tables (1)

Aesthetics; Alignment; At grade intersections; Decision making; Economics; Environmental impact statements; Grade separations; Light rail transit; Planning and design

Ballasted track

Portland (Oregon)

Design; Economics; Highways; Public Transportation; Vehicles and Equipment

TRIS, TRB

Apr 6 2004 12:00AM