Transportation & Parking
Getting to Work
PSU's vision outlines our commitment to "environmental sustainability and quality of life in the Portland region and beyond." In support of this vision, members of the University community are encouraged to take advantage of alternative modes of transportation at every opportunity. This is one of the single most important decisions you can make to help reduce the carbon-footprint of PSU and contribute to a more sustainable campus.
Public Transportation
The majority of staff and faculty find it more convenient and economical to ride transit to and from Portland State. The PSU campus is located at the heart of the TriMet transit system and is well served by the MAX light-rail, Portland Streetcar, and multiple bus lines. We are also located within the “Free Rail Zone” which allows for free short trips by MAX or the Streetcar. For more details about the transit system, please visit the TriMet website. You can also visit PSU Transportation & Parking Services for route planning advice and help with any transit questions you might have.
PSU benefits-eligible employees may purchase an annual transit pass (called the PSU Passport) at a reduced rate, with the option of having the fee deducted directly from your monthly pay. The PSU Passport is an All-Zone TriMet transit pass valid on all TriMet buses, MAX light-rail trains and the Portland Streetcar. The Passport also entitles users to a free emergency-ride-home service and discounted daily parking in select structures for those days when you must drive.
A similar program is available for Vancouver residents who would prefer to utilize the C-Tran Express Bus service. Please inquire at PSU Transportation & Parking Services for more information
Both Tri-Met and C-Tran provide "Park-and-Ride" locations in suburban areas, so that you can park your car for free and finish your commute by transit.
Bike to Work
A rapidly growing number of PSU employees are choosing to ride bicycles to work. As a mode of transportation, bicycling is both healthy and cost efficient. To support and encourage bicycling, PSU operates an on-campus bike shop called the PSU Bike Hub, where students and staff can repair their own bikes with guided instruction, purchase commuting accessories and repair parts, drop off a bike for professional repair, and take classes in bike commuting and bike repair techniques.
PSU also provides many types of bicycle parking throughout campus. Standard bike racks are located outside at every building on campus. Faculty and staff are also allowed, at their department director’s discretion, to park a bike in their office, cubicle, or a designated space within their department. Lastly, PSU Transportation & Parking Services operates two bicycle garages, where bikes can be parked inside a secure, covered space that includes electronic card access control and security cameras. For more information about bicycle parking, please visit this Bike Parking page.
Parking
If your commute requires driving, you may purchase an hourly, daily, quarterly or annual parking permit for use in PSU parking lots or structures. For prices and information about the various types of parking permits available, please visit the PSU Transportation & Parking Services website. For benefits-eligible employees, the cost of some parking permits may be deducted from your monthly pay.
Once you've purchased your parking permit, it must be displayed properly at all times. Parking without a permit will result in a fine. University parking lots and garages are routinely patrolled and parking regulations are strictly enforced.
Carpooling
Want to cut down on the cost of parking and share the driving? Consider carpooling to work. Carpool permits are available for most locations on campus. For more information on PSU carpooling options and requirements, please contact PSU Transportation & Parking Services at 1812 SW 6th Ave (on the 1st floor of the ASRC) or call 503-725-3442.
Identification Cards
Obtaining a PSU Identification (ID) Card is the most important step to gaining access to parking and discounted fares. To get your identification card, you must visit the Office of Human Resources to complete new hire paperwork. Upon completion of the new hire paperwork process, you will receive a validation sticker and ID memo. Bring the memo to the ID window in the lobby of Neuberger Hall where you may purchase a new ID card at a nominal cost. With your PSU Identification card, you can gain access to some buildings and use the Library and Recreation Facilities; you cannot do so without it.