A Tale of Two Transit Systems: Comparing Copenhagen, Denmark and Portland, Oregon\u27s Transit Networks

Abstract

This research project aims to highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the intercity train systems in Copenhagen and Portland based on their related scholarship and each system\u27s efficiency, ridership, and projected expansion. In 2008 and 2010, the International Metrorail conference cited the Copenhagen Metro as one of the most effective transit systems in the world for its stability and customer satisfaction (Institute for Human Centered Design, 2016). Given the accolades awarded to the Copenhagen Metro, this project will work to understand what elements of Copenhagen’s Metro systems make it so efficient, and how they can be applied in Portland. More specifically, this research will answer the following question: How can the existing light rail system in Portland, Oregon, the MAX, be compared and improved by examining the public transit strategies and designs that are used in the Metro system in Copenhagen, Denmark? This research question is two pronged. First, it aims to identify the qualities of the Metro that enables the system to work effectively, and second, it looks to underscore what aspects of the Metro could potentially be applied to the Portland MAX