King County Metro Transit is calling on Southeast King County residents to partner on King County Executive Dow Constantine’s initiative to provide more and better transit options to meet the specific needs of riders from Enumclaw to Renton.
Southeast King County is one of several areas targeted for Metro’s expanded Alternative Services Program. Through this program, Metro works collaboratively with local governments, community groups and riders to identify transit services that are cost effective and offer improved choices. Those services might include options such as customizable shuttles or vans, ridesharing options or Community Access Transportation.
“We’re working harder than ever to customize transit services to meet the specific needs of the communities we serve,” said Executive Constantine. “Take the survey and help Metro create innovative alternatives for mobility in Southeast King County.”
The Southeast King County program kicks off with an opportunity to go online to tell Metro about the types of transit services you think are needed. Through this online survey, Metro will have a better understanding of where there are gaps in service, what’s working or not working – and ideas for more customized alternatives that may better serve riders.
“Our goal is to improve how people get around, and we want to hear from riders – whether they are commuters looking for better ways to reach job centers, or people looking for midday service that meets their needs,” said County Councilmember Reagan Dunn.
“Finding out what riders need – both commuters and midday riders – will help shape our evolving public transportation system,” said County Councilmember Pete von Reichbauer. “We want to assist riders in making better connections within their communities with useful service that is cost effective and works.”
Metro is particularly interested in two key transit corridors. The area between Renton and Enumclaw is currently served by routes 143 and 907. Route 143 provides weekday peak commuter service between Black Diamond and Seattle via Renton, while Route 907 operates during the midday between Enumclaw and Renton. Metro wants to know if there are alternatives that might better meet the needs of these communities and the cities of Maple Valley and Black Diamond.
The second corridor between Enumclaw and Auburn is served by the routes 186 and Route 915. The Route 186 offers peak commuter service and Route 915 provides midday/Saturday service. While these routes are popular, there may be opportunities to serve even more riders in this area.
Once you’ve shared your thoughts online, you can hear what you and your neighbors had to say and give feedback on service alternative concepts at one of two upcoming meetings held
Tuesday May 26, 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m.
William C. Warren Building
405 E Street NE, Auburn
Thursday May 28, 5:30 p.m. -7:30 p.m.
Greater Maple Valley Community Center
22010 SE 248th Street, Maple Valley
During these meetings, Metro will collect a second round of feedback and report back this summer on revised alternatives for improving service. Those alternatives could be put in place as early as next fall.
To learn more about Metro’s alternative services plan and upcoming meetings in Southeast King County, visit our website or call 206-477-3835.
