Well the day is here. Today is my last day riding the MAX in Portland. For almost 2 and a half years I have rode the Red Line from ParkRose to downtown 5 days a week religiously. It was only recently that I started this blog to record my daily travels and tribulations. I wish I had started it sooner because its always been an adventure to share.
The MAX to some is a means of transportation that they will never step foot on due to the news reports of random violence that litter the local news media. Yes there is some crazy shit that goes down on MAX sometimes. But shit, there a hundreds on crazy things that happen on other mass transit systems every damn day and people still ride. Look at the NJ/NYC PATH or NYC subway even BART in Cali has violence. I believe that you need to get on and ride to see the real deal. I also believe that 90% of the shit that happens on MAX is a direct result of bad fair management on TriMet's part.
Young teens and homeless in my opinion make up the majority of these problems. You never hear of a 35yr old business man calling another passenger a "fuckin whore" and then stealing his/her bag? Its always some deranged homeless dude or a kid trying to look tough in front of friends that is beating down a 70yr woman or snatching purses from other teens minds their own business. TriMet does nothing to stop fair jumpers at all. They put random fair inspectors at some stops to check fair, when they have 5mins free from stuffing their faces with donuts and coffee. Ridiculous.
If MAX was run like a subway or PATH train system passengers would pass through a turn style system by swiping their monthly/yearly card or purchasing a single ride ticket. This would cut out a great percentage losers that skip fair each day and cause the issues TriMet faces. Its just a bad design they have now and they think by hiring cops for stops or trains will help. Money could be spent on better equipment that could outlast an officer's shift.
Obviously I have a lot to say about how TriMet manages their system. One day they will get it, right now they don't.
When I moved here from New Jersey about 3yrs ago I never thought I would love it so much. MAX has been but a small part of my Pacific Northwest adventures over the last few years. Hiking in the Gorge and around Mt Hood and St Helens is an experience that I will always remember and also a reason to one day return. As for now, I am transferring to my firm's main office in Houston, TX. I am not at all trading my hiking boots for cowboy boots, no way no how.
A great opportunity has guided me this way. It is a huge move for me and my family but has many benefits right now in my life and career.
MAX, I will miss you and your interesting characters you shuffle to and fro...
Peace out for now-
pdxMAX (Nigel)
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