High capacity transit is public transportation that moves a lot of people quickly and often – think MAX light rail or bus-only lanes. This type of transit carries more people, runs more frequently, makes fewer stops, and travels at higher speeds. It also includes features on streets and at stations that make it more reliable, convenient and comfortable to use.
High capacity transit is a key element of the 2040 Growth Concept, a long-range plan adopted by the Metro Council in 1995. As a part of the 2023 Regional Transportation Plan, the High Capacity Transit Strategy will identify priority areas for investments that would provide the most benefit to the most people. These investments will focus on equity and affordable housing in high capacity transit areas and help to complete a vision for an integrated regional transportation system.
Learn more about the draft vision for high capacity transit in the greater Portland region.
Healthy communities and a strong economy
High capacity transit connects people with commercial hubs and supports development in dense areas with a mix of housing and jobs. It also moves people efficiently and comfortably over long distances.
In greater Portland, people with low incomes, people of color, people with disabilities, older adults and single-parents are more likely to rely on transit. When high capacity transit is linked to a broader transit and transportation network it can provide a more affordable alternative to using a car. This helps make the transportation system more equitable for people who rely on transit every day.
Reducing cars on the road also means less air pollution, more physical activity, less time in traffic, fewer crashes and more reliability for moving both people and goods. In these ways and others, high capacity transit supports healthy, equitable communities and a strong economy.
Timeline
Framework
Establish the policy framework, aligned with 2023 RTP goals and targets.
June 2022 to August 2022
Vision
Identify high capacity transit corridors and refine the network vision.
July 2022 to November 2022
Corridor tiers
Tier the potential corridors for investment readiness, informing the 2023 RTP investment strategy.
October 2022 to February 2023
Report
Prepare draft report for public review (to be incorporated into the 2023 RTP for adoption in November 2023).
January 2023 to June 2023