Oregon’s Smart Corridor Project Prioritizes Safer, Faster, Greener Commutes

Improving transportation efficiency and public safety at the intersection of SW 185th Avenue and Baseline Road in Oregon remains a top regional priority. In response to increasing congestion and delays at this critical MAX light rail crossing, the City of Hillsboro has submitted a proposal under the Metro 2028-30 Regional Flexible Funding Allocation (RFFA) to deploy an intelligent transportation system (ITS) solution. The Smart SW 185th Avenue ITS and Better Bus Project, developed in coordination with Washington County, TriMet, and the Cities of Hillsboro and Beaverton, leverages artificial intelligence (AI) and integrated signal coordination to enhance multi-modal mobility and extend the lifespan of existing infrastructure.

Integrating Smart Technology with Public Transit Infrastructure

The project proposes the installation of advanced sensors—including radar, cameras, and detection devices—along the SW 185th Avenue corridor. These tools will support real-time traffic monitoring and adaptive signal control to reduce delays for vehicles, transit, and pedestrians alike. A major innovation lies in the synchronization of traffic lights and rail signals at the intersection, which is frequently disrupted by MAX train crossings.

By introducing an AI-based system to coordinate signal timing, the project aims to eliminate bottlenecks that currently lead to prolonged vehicle idling, delayed bus service, and pedestrian safety risks. According to project planners, the system will prioritize transit vehicles by allowing southbound TriMet buses to use a dedicated right-turn slip lane, improving bus frequency and reliability.

Safety and Sustainability Benefits

Safety improvements are central to the project design. The new ITS will address a recurring challenge where pedestrians and cyclists are often stranded at corners when trains interrupt signal patterns. By using real-time detection, the system will ensure that crossing signals respond promptly to foot and bike traffic, minimizing the chance of hazardous crossings and improving accessibility.

Beyond safety, the project also aligns with broader sustainability objectives. Adaptive signal control can significantly reduce vehicle idling times, thereby cutting greenhouse gas emissions and supporting regional climate goals. Enhancing public transit reliability further encourages mode shifts away from single-occupancy vehicles.

Public Engagement and Funding Pathways

Community input will play a pivotal role in advancing the proposal. Metro has launched an online survey—open through Wednesday, April 30—to gather feedback from residents. The level of public support will influence final funding decisions for the 2028–2030 allocation period, during which approximately $42 million in flexible federal funding will be distributed across the Portland metro region.

While the Smart SW 185th Avenue ITS and Better Bus Project is not a permanent fix to the region’s transportation challenges, it offers an immediate and impactful upgrade to existing infrastructure. Importantly, it buys time for the longer-term vision of constructing a permanent grade-separated overpass at SW 185th Avenue—a project still in search of federal design and construction funds.