FROM MAGNET BOARDS AND GREASE PENCILS TO FLAT PANELS AND OVERVIEW DISPLAYS: TRIMET CASE STUDY

The evolution of a light rail system from a simple single-line system to a multiple-line system with integrated bus operations is a complex process, requiring careful coordination by operations, information systems, and capital projects staff. The problems involved are complicated by the need to maintain service and cascading technology. TriMet is now on its fifth phase of control center development. Each phase has been a learning process. Each phase has required increasing levels of involvement from all stakeholders. The evolution through each phase is described by providing the perspectives of each of the major stakeholders and the major lessons learned in each phase. TriMet's experience is that the ongoing process of implementing technology and integrating operations has been workable and desirable. The current phase of development will bring the Interstate project on line in the joint bus and rail command center. The process of implementing new technology works best when all of the stakeholders are active participants, because all of the project goals are more clearly identified.