Social Welfare

King County Metro buses on Third Avenue during rush hour. (Bruce Englehardt)

The Case for Making Transit Free (and How to Pay for It)

As a community, Seattle has been struggling with numerous issues like income equality, our world-class congestion, and the regressive nature of our tax system....

National Social Housing Plan Urges Creation of 12 Million of Homes

Since the Reagan administration, the federal government has gotten out of the game of producing social housing itself. A new report titled "The Case...
Pioneer Square Station platform from the mezzanine level.

Sound Transit Weighs Fare Enforcement Reform, New Name for University Street Station

It was a busy week at Sound Transit headquarters. Agency staff briefed regional policymakers on a range of topics from Connect 2020 progress to...
A photo showing doors for restrooms at a light rail station.

Toilet Deserts Remain Despite Sound Transit’s Renewed Restroom Policy

More passenger restrooms are ahead in Sound Transit's ever-growing system. However, a recommended policy update would discourage them from becoming a universal and easily...
The new and improved Olympia Transit Center is expected to open soon. (Credit: Intercity Transit)

Intercity Transit Considering Going Fare-Free in Thurston County

A fare-free system could be headed to Thurston County. Intercity Transit will consider a demonstration project for a five-year fare-free bus network, which could...
A for rent sign in front of flowers.

A Permanent Rental Assistance Program Would Prevent Homelessness in Seattle

Barry (not his real name) can afford to pay about $200 a month for his small apartment. His rent is $800. He’s disabled and...
Mosqueda sits at the dais. She is a Latina wearing a hot pink blazer.

Trump Shreds Social Safety Net, Creating Perfect Storm for Homelessness

Trump actions are set to deepen the homelessness crisis, while kids face ICE deportation without any legal defense. County and City of Seattle leaders are scrambling to respond.

Sound Transit Fare Enforcement Hits People of Color Hardest, Revised Process Under Review

Fare enforcement policies administered by Sound Transit have only been slightly altered, albeit temporarily, despite serious concern by some Sound Transit boardmembers. A briefing...