The 40th anniversary of the historic Portland MAX Light Rail system opening, connecting downtown Portland and Gresham—and its iconic Type 1 car No. 101—will be celebrated on September 5, 2026, at the Oregon Electric Railway Museum
MAX Type 1 No. 101 at Pioneer Courthouse Square on opening day, Sept. 5, 1986
On September 5, 1986, TriMet launched the MAX Light Rail System, marking the return of electric rail transit to Portland for the first time since the 1950s. Crowds lined the route from Gresham to Portland, eager to ride the brand-new system. The Museum’s own MAX Car No. 101 led the very first official train carrying dignitaries on opening day before entering regular service.
To honor the 40th anniversary of this milestone, we’re bringing history back to life.
Ride MAX Car #101 that started it all!
On Saturday, September 5, we will operate MAX Car No. 101 alongside our Australian tram No. 1187. Your trolley ticket includes unlimited rides on both cars throughout the day.
This is also the final regular operating day of the season, making it the perfect time to enjoy a last ride and celebrate Portland’s transit heritage.
Museum Hours: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Location: Powerland Heritage Park, 3995 Brooklake Road, Brooks, OR
Just west of I-5 Exit 263 in Brooks, Oregon
Minutes north of Salem/Keizer
Only 35–40 minutes from Portland
Come ride a piece of Oregon history and help us celebrate four decades of MAX Light Rail—starting with the very car that led the inaugural train.
Trolley Fares
Adults: $7
Seniors/Military: $5
Youth (2-12): $3
Under 2 is free
Family Fare: $24 (Requires at least one adult).
Car No. 101: Built in 1984, this historic Bombardier-built Type 1 light rail vehicle was the very first of its series.
Museum Home: TriMet officially donated Car 101 to the Oregon Electric Railway Museum (located at Powerland Heritage Park) in 2025.
Recent Retirement: TriMet officially retired its final operational Type 1 fleet in April 2026 after nearly four decades of service, hosting a massive farewell party at Holladay Park before moving remaining preservation cars to museum care.
The museum will be open and giving rides from 11 am to 3 pm
More details Here