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A Better Red (MAX) Line Design & Construction

Project Manager 
Preliminary Engineering, Final Design and Design Support During Construction

(2018-2024)

A Better RED project extended the MAX Red Line to ten new stations, to now include Fair Complex, and added double tracking from Gateway Transit Center to Portland International Airport. It involved new track installation, station construction, systems upgrades, and a multi-use path, with the goal of increasing service frequency, capacity, and reliability. The project was completed on time and within budget, improving service dependability and reducing delays for riders across the entire MAX system.

Role:

As Project Manager for A Better RED project in Portland, Oregon, Sarah was responsible for overseeing the preliminary engineering, final design and design support throughout construction. Her leadership ensured that the project remained on track, both in terms of schedule and budget, while also delivering the desired improvements to the MAX Red Line service.

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Her extensive experience in financial management, light rail operations, and construction allowed her to navigate the complexities of this large-scale infrastructure project with ease, coordinating effectively with multiple stakeholders and seeking the best solution for riders during the construction.  

Project Description

As Project Manager for the A Better RED project in Portland, Oregon, Sarah was responsible for overseeing the final design and providing design support throughout construction. Her leadership ensured that the project remained on track, both in terms of schedule and budget, while also delivering the desired improvements to the MAX Red Line service.

​

Her extensive experience in financial management, light rail operations, and construction allowed her to navigate the complexities of this large-scale infrastructure project with ease, coordinating effectively with multiple stakeholders.

Key Project Features:

  • Extension of the existing MAX Red Line: The project extended service west to include ten new stations  to give riders a "one-seat" ride from the airport to Fair Complex, eliminating the need for transfers along the alignment. 

  • Double Tracking: From the Gateway Transit Center to Portland International Airport, double tracking was added to improve service reliability.

  • New Construction Elements:

  • Tracks: Installation of new tracks to support increased capacity.

  • Structures: A new structure over I-84 and UPRR and a structure spanning the existing Red Line alignment allowed for a second Red Line track to service the new Gateway Transit Center Platform.

  • Stations: New inbound station at Gateway Transit Center, and reconstructed station at Portland International Airport 

  • Systems: Installation of new substation, signal systems, and OCS to accomodate the second track. 

  • Multi-Use Path: MUP constructed at Gateway Transit Center and PDX to allow for multi-modal access for riders

Results/Impact:

  • Improved Transit Experience: The project purpose served to boost capacity, reduce  delays, and provide a more dependable service for MAX commuters.

  • On-Time Completion and Budget Adherence: Under Sarah's management, the project was completed on time and within the established budget.

  • Collaborative Leadership: Sarah's ability to bring together diverse teams and stakeholders was a key factor in ensuring smooth project delivery.

 Additional Highlights:

Sarah's expertise in financial management, light rail operations, and construction was crucial to maintaining momentum, managing the project budget, and overcoming challenges throughout the project lifecycle.

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