Operator training has begun for TriMet’s new, green FX buses for the first TriMet FX™—or Frequent Express—bus line.
Bus operators will learn from TriMet bus trainers about the differences in operating a 60-foot articulated FX bus compared to the standard 40-foot buses—and doing it safely in a dynamic environment. They’ll be trained on how to operate the front door ramp and other mobility device features, learn how to line up the bus at station areas, and be educated on safe interactions with vehicles, bicycles and pedestrians in the busy Division Street corridor.
Trainers will also instruct operators on other unique features of the articulated bus, which bends in the middle. They’ll learn how to turn corners safely and operate the buses’ three doors for all-door boarding.
The new high-capacity FX 2-Division service opens in September 2022. Overhead signs on the front of the buses will let people know they’re not picking up riders.
The route and what to expect during training
People may have seen these big, green buses being tested in the corridor over the last year. Now, with much of the Division Transit Project construction done, TriMet is shifting into operator training.
It will have up to four FX training buses traveling along the FX 2-Division route each day. The route runs between Union Station in Downtown Portland and Gresham Central Transit Center. Buses will travel across Tilikum Crossing, Bridge of the People and along the Division Street corridor, making brief stops at stations to simulate picking up riders. The new buses are longer, but not wider, than the standard buses.
“The on-street training is an exciting milestone in the Division Transit Project that will bring better, more efficient bus service to the corridor,” said TriMet Chief Operating Officer Bonnie Todd. “We do ask people driving, walking and biking around these articulated buses to give our operators some patience and room as they get used to the bigger buses. Please be aware and give them a little more space, like you would around trucks, as our operators learn how to make turns and other maneuvers safely in these longer buses.”
TriMet will initially train approximately 180 bus operators for FX 2-Division service, and more over time. Training for the start of FX 2-Division service is expected to last through August 2022 and will become a permanent part of TriMet’s bus operator training curriculum.
