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Beat the New Year’s Eve traffic with free rides from TriMet and ODOT

A MAX train crosses the Steel Bridge in Portland, September 2022 (KOIN)

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — TriMet and the Oregon Department of Transportation are teaming up to give free rides to Portlanders and surrounding residents this New Year’s Eve.

“By working with ODOT to help keep impaired drivers off the road, our goal is to bring some extra peace of mind to drivers, pedestrians and those looking to take in the festivities,” TriMet said in the release. “Offering free rides on New Year’s Eve has been a TriMet practice for years, and we’re excited to be bringing it back.”

Free rides on MAX trains, TriMet buses and the Portland Streetcar begin at 8 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 31.

MAX trains will operate during their regular hours, but with continued service until at least 2 a.m.

Here is the latest that you can catch all of the MAX trains:

TriMet buses will remain on their regular Saturday schedules. Riders who will be out celebrating past midnight are encouraged to consider riding on the MAX trains. Plan out your travels here.

The streets could be very busy due to the last holiday of the year, so TriMet advises everyone to be alert, be respectful of operators and fellow passengers, and report anything suspicious to TriMet staff or 911.