TriMet GM McFarlane to retire in early 2018

Tri-County Metropolitan Transportation District of Oregon (TriMet) General Manager Neil McFarlane this week announced plans to retire in early 2018.

McFarlane joined the agency in 1991 and became general manager in 2010. During his time at TriMet, he helped grow the MAX light-rail system from a single 15-mile line to a five-line, 60-mile network.

McFarlane also brought the first commuter-rail line to Oregon, TriMet officials said in a press release.

"Neil's leadership guided the agency out of the Great Recession, improved financial stability and built the foundation to successfully expand service and modernize the system," said TriMet Board President Bruce Warner.

Under McFarlane's leadership, TriMet launched the regional Hop Fastpass electronic fare system, as well as a mobile fare app.

TriMet's board has hired KL2 Connects LLC and Celia Kupersmith to conduct the search for McFarlane's replacement.