Oaks Amusement Park to Debut Electric Train in 2027
The new battery-powered locomotive will replace a propane model when the park opens in March 2027.
Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Electric Vehicles
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Oaks Amusement Park will swap its old propane-powered train engine for a lithium-ion model beginning in March 2027. This electric locomotive will maintain the park's 56 daily trips while pulling existing passenger and ADA-accessible cars.
Why it matters
The project represents a push by the historic riverside park to lower its carbon footprint and align with goals for 100% renewable energy use. It continues a multi-year effort to electrify park operations, leaving only the go-karts as non-electric rides.
The project is backed by a $430,263 grant from the Drive Change Fund and will cut 6 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually. While the locomotive is set for operation, the full integration timeline for associated station charging gear remains in development.
The players
Oaks Amusement Park
A historic amusement park located in Portland that is currently transitioning its rides to electric power.
Portland General Electric
The regional utility provider that manages the Drive Change Fund.
Chance Rides
The Kansas-based manufacturer responsible for building the new electric locomotive.
The details
The new locomotive, manufactured by Chance Rides, will utilize automatic charging equipment installed at a newly constructed covered station platform. The train will continue its standard loop, pulling five passenger cars along with a dedicated ADA-accessible unit. The park intends for this infrastructure to support its transition away from fossil fuels, with the electric conversion standing as the primary change for the train line.
Timeline
March 2027: Unveiling of the new electric locomotive.
2027: Opening of a new drop tower.
Beyond the Bridges
This project follows a pattern set by Portland's 100% Renewable Energy goal, marking a tangible step in the city's broader decarbonization efforts. It reflects a wider regional trend of historic venues replacing aging, high-emission equipment with modern electric alternatives.
Visitors to the park will notice the new train engine when the season opens in March 2027. While the train will maintain its usual 56 daily trips, the upgraded cars will continue to provide the same accessibility features for riders with mobility needs.
The takeaway
The park continues its transition to electric infrastructure, leaving only the go-karts as non-electric rides. Keep an eye on the park's spring 2027 schedule to see the new locomotive and the announced drop tower in action.
Further reading
Learn more about the local shift toward sustainable transit and power in Electric Vehicles.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KXL Newsradio 750.
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