Clients/Projects

Portland Aerial Tram
May–October 2006

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Overview

In 1999, OHSU developed a 20-year Master Facilities Plan to address OHSU's future growth. The plan recognized that OHSU's ability to expand on Marquam Hill was severely limited due to site and road constraints. OHSU considered other expansion scenarios, but together with the city identified South Waterfront as the best expansion site, assuming a rapid and reliable transit connection between the campus and the waterfront could be established.

A study was commissioned to look at the many connection alternatives, and it concluded that a tram was the best solution. This then led to Portland's first international design competition. From December 2002 to March 2003, firms from around the world competed for the privilege of designing the Portland Aerial Tram.

Before the Tram was even running, it became a catalyst for investment dollars in South Waterfront, with even greater investment expected in the future. This area has proved to be a significant and vital addition to the development and growth of Portland's future.

Why a Tram?
OHSU needs to expand beyond its Marquam Hill campus to meet increased patient, education and research needs. The underused properties of South Waterfront provided a location that would keep OHSU's growth in Portland. After years of discussion and study of options to connect the upper campus with the new area, the Portland City Council adopted the Marquam Hill Plan that included the Tram as the superior system over shuttles and other alternatives to link the two areas.

Who owns the Tram?
The Portland Aerial Tram is part of Portland's public transportation system, and is owned by the city. OHSU provided $40 million of the $57 million construction cost of the Tram. The city's share of construction costs ($8.5 million) will be collected over time from the rising property values in South Waterfront caused by its redevelopment. OHSU oversees operation of the Tram, while the city is responsible for the maintenance of the upper and lower stations and tower, and provides regulatory oversight.