These 18 vehicles were ordered as a part of the Portland-Milwaukie light rail transit project. This extension includes a light rail alignment that travels 11.75kms, connecting Portland State University in downtown Portland, inner Southeast Portland, Milwaukie and North Clackamas County. When it opens in September 2015, it will bring the light rail system to a total of just under 100kms and 97 stations.
This contract award will bring the total number of S70 light rail cars manufactured for TriMet by Siemens to 40. The company has a strong relationship with TriMet, having previously provided more than 100 low floor vehicles, including TriMet's newest fleet of 22 S70 light rail vehicles delivered in 2009.