The Portland Bureau of Transportation announced on April 17 that construction will start April 21 in downtown Portland to upgrade transit stops at SW 6th Avenue and SW Alder Street. The project is part of preparations for the upcoming James Beard Public Market, with initial work focusing on TriMet’s Line 15 stop at SW Alder Street and 10th Avenue, followed by improvements at the stop near SW Alder Street and 6th Avenue in May.
These upgrades are intended to make downtown more accessible for residents and visitors as the city continues efforts to revitalize its central area. “PBOT is an integral piece of our downtown renaissance,” said Portland Mayor Keith Wilson. “Together we are making our central city more accessible for Portlanders than ever before, by providing improved transit stops to the incredible cultural, retail, and dining destinations that make our city a destination.”
Deputy City Administrator for Public Works Priya Dhanapal said, “Downtown’s comeback depends on how easy it is for people to get here and move around. PBOT’s investments on SW Alder are making transit more reliable, safer, and more welcoming, while creating a strong front door to the James Beard Public Market and supporting the future of downtown Portland.” Jessica Elkan, Executive Director of the Market added: “Revitalizing downtown Portland is a team effort, and we are thrilled to have the City’s support as we build this civic destination in downtown Portland. PBOT’s investments right outside our doors will provide a welcoming, accessible, and vibrant front porch for our future visitors, ensuring everyone can easily gather here to celebrate Oregon’s rich food culture and bounty.” TriMet General Manager Sam Desue Jr. also commented: “Faster, more reliable bus trips are ahead for our riders, thanks to the transit improvements included in PBOT’s Rose Lane project. Those riders will also appreciate upgrades to the bus stops at Southwest 6th and Alder. We’re excited to see vintage MAX shelters upcycled and modernized to serve a new generation of riders on the Portland Transit Mall and future visitors to the James Beard Public Market.”
The current phase follows previous work completed in 2022 which rerouted TriMet’s Line 15 onto SW Alder Street with temporary stops installed; now permanent infrastructure such as concrete curb extensions will be added along with refurbished shelters from former MAX stations.
Preparatory construction has already begun with utility providers relocating underground assets ahead of shelter installation. The new high-capacity shelters aim not only for durability but also improved aesthetics including weather protection and better lighting.
During construction through mid-August commuters should expect daytime noise delays; one travel lane remains open while parking restrictions apply near affected intersections—pedestrian detours will be marked accordingly.
