Metro Bus Reliability Dips as Summer Construction Season Hits
Summer road work means delays for bus riders, but King County Metro is seeking to design detours to minimize the pain. Some transit riders argue more mitigation is needed.
King County Advances K Line Designs for Eastside’s Next RapidRide
The adoption of a locally preferred alternative allows Metro to fully advance design work while seeking federal funding. Outstanding questions remain, including how bus priority will be added along a contentious segment in Houghton.
Sunday Video: Why Don’t US Cities Build Metro Systems?
Dave Amos explores the issue of the dearth of rapid transit expansion in the U.S. over the last half-century. He highlights some unique exceptions and the move toward light rail systems instead. Density seems a key culprit for the dearth of metro systems.
Route 40 Bus Lane Installation Starts, Aiding Riders During I-5 Work
The targeted upgrades intended to speed up buses and increase reliability have been in the works since 2021, and come just in time to aid riders during upcoming I-5 closures. They have faced considerable opposition from business groups along Route 40.
Central Puget Sound’s Transportation Funding Gap Tops $78 Billion Through 2050
Despite heavy attention on challenges funding transportation at the state level, shortfalls are projected to hit transit agencies and city transportation networks hardest. With few tools available to raise progressive transportation revenue at the local level, the future looks bleak without reform.
Issaquah Eyes New I-90 Bridge to Connect to Future Light Rail Station
The preferred concept for an I-90 bridge in Central Issaquah would cost at least $110 million, and is seen as an essential component of creating a more connected neighborhood around a future light rail station. Councilmembers are wary about jumping in with both feet.
Extra Vashon Water-Taxi Trips Extended, Bremerton Fast Ferry Could Face Cuts
King County will continue offering 10 daily round trips on weekdays between Vashon and Downtown Seattle through 2027. Meanwhile, service levels on the Bremerton fast ferry are still being negotiated.
Emergency 1-Line Rail Repairs to Halt Downtown Service on Busy Weekend
All 1 Line stations in Downtown Seattle will be closed Saturday June 21 to Sunday June 22, after Sound Transit discovered a section of rail in need of replacement near Westlake. The agency plans to run shuttle buses to bridge the gap every 30-60 minutes. Alternate transit routes may best serve riders.