Portland is one of the better-known U.S. cities for multimodal transportation, though car travel remains important, especially outside the central city.
**Roads and highways**
- Major routes include **Interstate 5**, **Interstate 84**, **Interstate 205**, **U.S. 26**, and several state highways. - The city's river crossings are critical to mobility; bridges over the Willamette are among Portland's defining infrastructure.
**Public transit**
- **TriMet** operates the region's main transit system. - **MAX Light Rail** connects Portland with Gresham, Hillsboro, Clackamas-area destinations, Portland International Airport, and other regional hubs. - **Bus service** is extensive and remains the backbone of transit coverage. - The **Portland Streetcar** serves central-city neighborhoods including downtown, the Pearl District, Northwest Portland, the Central Eastside, and South Waterfront. - **WES Commuter Rail** links suburban communities south of the city; it is more relevant to regional commuting than to most intra-city travel.
**Airports**
- **Portland International Airport (PDX)** is the main commercial airport and one of the most important air gateways in Oregon. - Smaller general aviation facilities serve the wider region.
**Rail and freight**
- **Amtrak** serves Portland's Union Station with intercity passenger rail. - Freight rail is important to the local economy, linking port, industrial, and national markets.
**Ports and marine transport**
- The **Port of Portland** oversees marine terminals and airport facilities. - Portland's inland port role has historically been central to trade on the Columbia-Willamette system.
**Bicycling and walking**
- Portland has long been recognized for bicycle commuting, neighborhood greenways, and bike lanes, though network quality varies. - Many inner neighborhoods are highly walkable, especially those built around historic streetcar corridors. - Trails and paths, including waterfront and park routes, support recreation and everyday mobility.
**Taxis, rideshare, and carshare**
- Taxis, rideshare services, and various shared-mobility options are available.
**Electric vehicles**
- EV charging infrastructure has expanded in recent years, especially in commercial districts, parking facilities, and along regional travel corridors.
Transportation remains a major civic issue, especially regarding congestion, bridge maintenance, safety, transit funding, and equitable service in outer neighborhoods.
