Lawmakers pushing for more TriMet security

Lawmakers pushing for more TriMet security

A TriMet fare inspector writes a ticket aboard a MAX train.

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Story Published: Jan 15, 2008 at 11:31 AM PDT

Story Updated: Jan 15, 2008 at 3:15 PM PDT

By KATU Web Staff

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PORTLAND, Ore. - Some Oregon lawmakers say they want to force Portland's TriMet mass transit agency to boost security on the MAX light rail line.

Sen. Laurie Monnes, a Gresham Democrat, said she has drafted a plan to fund two full-time Gresham police officers to patrol the rails, as well as increase the number of security cameras and add more fare inspectors.

"When I have people coming to me saying they won't ride TriMet at night, there is a problem," Sen. Monnes said. "We have to bring it to the attention of TriMet to fix it."

The plan would also place gates at some MAX stations that would only allow entry to paying riders. Other cities use a similar system.

TriMet has recently stepped up fare inspections. Many riders have told KATU News that in the past, they rarely if ever saw fare inspectors or security personnel on the trains.

Now, some passengers say they see more fare inspectors and police.

Recent violent incidents along the rails, especially in the Gresham area, have prompted calls for more security for light rail passengers.

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