Pickup location at PDX moves, expands

PORTLAND, Ore. (KPTV) - A new procedure for transportation companies and passengers alike at the Portland International Airport beginning Tuesday morning.

The airport opened a transportation plaza for passenger pickups for rideshare apps and taxis. One of those who feels it’s an improvement is Uber rider Guillermo Faller.

“I feel like this kind of removes all that clutter with getting dropped off or trying to find your Uber,” Faller said. “(You’re) mixed up with all the other cars that might resemble the same vehicle.”

The move to the new transportation plaza replaces the former pick-up location, which originated from the curbside islands. It does not change the drop-off location but the airport says it still will reroute about a million cars a year.

“That’s going to relieve congestion and it’s also going to reduce emissions of idling vehicles,” Port of Portland spokesperson Allison Ferré said.

The airport said traffic jams have become a huge problem on the arrivals level during peak times. That’s one reason for opening the new center.

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“I’m sure if you picked up at PDX, you know during peak hours, it can get backed up along Airport Way,” Ferré said.

When you request a ride using an app, it will now direct you to follow signs to the transportation plaza. There, you will find individual sections for Uber, Lyft and taxis.

“This is just one step further than the prior pickup spot,” Ferré said. “But there’s a lot more space to connect with your ride.”

Faller said although he’s still getting acclimated, he likes the change.

“I never realized this was part of the airport - this little concourse parking area,” he said. “I was following the signs for it. I think it’s a pretty efficient way to get people to and from the airport.”

The old roadway that used to handle the pickups will now be used for off-airport shuttles like parking and hotels.