PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — While crews continue to clear the wintry mess left from Wednesday’s record snowfall, TriMet has begun making plans for what could be a second snowfall this weekend.
On Friday, the National Weather Service issued another Winter Storm Watch for Saturday evening and Sunday morning that could impact Portland once again.
As of Friday evening, TriMet says there are still some MAX delays and a few bus routes remain suspended.
Approximately 15 bus routes are still temporarily suspended, but TriMet spokesperson Tyler Graf reminded folks that it’s a “fluid situation.” Depending on conditions, Graf said more routes could be suspended, but if roads improve route suspensions could be lifted.
TriMet plans to determine whether high elevation bus routes will be cancelled early Saturday morning. For the most up-to-date information, riders can visit TriMet’s website.
More than 100 buses were initially stranded during Wednesday’s storm, but only half a dozen remain stuck on the streets, according to Graf.
Although conditions aren’t the best for some bus routes, Graf says MAX is experiencing minimal delays.
“The MAX system is chugging along pretty well,” said Graf. “You know the thing you have to worry about with MAX is ice building up, but it’s been relatively clear the last couple days without precipitation. So MAX is running more or less on schedule with 10- to 15-minute delays.”
TriMet issued an accommodation Wednesday to provide free transportation to warming shelters for those unable to pay their bus fare. This notice is set to end Saturday at 10 a.m., but TriMet Spokesperson Tia York said Multnomah County will likely extend the accommodation by Saturday morning.
Watch the full interview with Tyler Graf in the video player above.