This is a follow-on to SacRT light rail will NOT be level boarding.

Over the Memorial Day weekend, Dan traveled to the Pacific Northwest, and rode on both the Portland and Seattle light rail systems.

The Portland system, MAX, has step-up boarding, but it is low, about three inches, less than the six inches that is planned for SacRT light rail. There is also a fairly large gap between the railcar and platform, probably more than would be allowed today. The MAX system was started in 1986, and apparently has retained the same railcar and platform design during its extensive expansion. MAX has both street-running sections and dedicated right-of-way sections.

Because the design is not level boarding, there are deployable ramps for mobility devices. Either the operator or the user can deploy. The deployment button, shown below, is close to the doors with the ramp. I did not see anyone with a mobility device during my time riding.

The Seattle system, Link, is in contrast, true level boarding. I saw one person with a mobility device during my rides. They rolled right on with no issues. Note the smaller gaps between the railcar and platform. Link is a more modern system, started in 2009 and rapidly expanding. It does not have any street-running sections.

Link light rail

* Link light rail trains feature level boarding at all stations, allowing passengers who use wheelchairs or other devices to simply roll aboard.
* All light rail vehicles feature two spaces for riders who use wheelchairs or other mobility devices.
* Handrails are available throughout all rail cars to assist with sitting, standing and balance.
* An intercom button for communicating with the train operator is located near the accessible seating in each rail car. Just press the button and speak. This is useful if you need more time to get off the train.
* At Link light rail stations, tactile waiting mats indicate where train doors will open and passengers can safely board, and at most stations bollards prevent passengers from inadvertently stepping into the empty space between cars.

Transit Accessibility, https://www.soundtransit.org/ride-with-us/know-before-you-go/transit-accessibility

• SacRT light rail modernization