TriMet GM launches outside review of light-rail maintenance needs

Written by Jenifer Nunez, assistant editor
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TriMet

TriMet General Manager Neil McFarlane has launched an outside review of the Portland, Ore., agency's light-rail maintenance system, which includes MAX vehicles and trackway. In order to better address both an aging and an expanding rail system, McFarlane wants a more comprehensive look at maintenance needs and to set a course for continuous improvement in the years ahead.

 

This review comes after McFarlane reorganized the Operations Division in November and created a new Maintenance Division to provide greater focus and accountability on vehicle and rail system reliability.

“I am taking this action because I want to improve rail reliability issues and on-time performance. We need a better understanding of what is necessary to reach a more consistent, better level of service,” said McFarlane. “I believe our customers will soon begin to notice our progress.”

The agency has hired LTK Engineering Services to lead the outside review. LTK will assess the state of repair of all vehicles and trackway, perform spot checks of selected equipment and review maintenance records and service reliability data. A full report is expected in six months but McFarlane will provide monthly progress updates to the board of directors. The final report will include recommendations on maintenance procedures, training programs, staffing levels, systems repairs and upgrades.

 

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