TriMet prides itself on being a close-knit community. Many operators and mechanics have worked at the Powell facility for a decade or more—once an operator is assigned to the facility, it’s rare they leave. Our goal for designing their new operations and maintenance facility is to continue to reflect that strong sense of community.
When TriMet desired an innovative, operationally efficient facility to serve as a role model for other transit agencies, we looked to the region’s natural features. The idea of a functional treehouse inspired us as we investigated the vertical stratification of functions to design a safer, healthier facility.
Quality design supports high-functioning facilities, a sense of community, and an appreciation for their most valuable asset—a strong workforce. All areas of this project were designed to optimize vision and daylighting through interior maintenance spaces and exterior bus storage to maximize safety for supervisors, mechanics, and operators. A large, partially covered exterior patio is included to encourage employee gatherings which includes a green roof, planters, and a built-in grill.
The project will be built in three phases and will include 286 electric buses.
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