TriMet to receive $184 million in federal funding

TriMet, Portland’s transportation leader, will receive $184 million in funding to continue service through harsh economic times.

President Donald Trump made the announcement in a tweet on Tuesday, adding that funding will also be directed to San Francisco’s BART, Seattle’s Sound Transit, and DC’s MATA.

“This will keep workers on the job and help the economic recovery by ensuring reliable transportation,” Trump wrote in his tweet.

I am proud to announce the Portland Area’s @trimet will receive over $184M in federal funds to support continued operations of their transit system. This will keep workers on the job and help the economic recovery by ensuring reliable transportation!

— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 19, 2020

TriMet has revised its guidelines for riding transit in Portland and its surrounding areas, issuing a notice for changes coming on May 20.

The company requests that citizens use public transit for essential travel only. Seats have also been restricted on buses and streetcars, providing safe distance between riders, and riders will be asked to wear face masks.

Important changes are coming to transit May 20:

✅ Face coverings are required
✅ Riders should stay 3 feet apart on board
✅ Sanitizer and face mask dispensers will be on buses & trains
✅ Vehicles to be disinfected about every 4 hours

Details ⬇️ https://t.co/Z4seo7XvQ9

— TriMet (@trimet) May 15, 2020

“Scarfs, bandannas and fabric masks are all okay, so long as they cover your nose and mouth,” wrote TriMet. “Medical masks (like an N95) are not needed – save them for health care workers.”

For the entire update from TriMet, check out their refreshed guidelines.