County Exec begins process to integrate some Metro Transit services with Sound Transit

Responding to criticism about the overlap and duplication of transit services at a time when deep cuts are threatened to Metro Transit services in King County, County Executive Dow Constantine, who is also the Chair of the Sound Transit Board, is taking steps to integrate services.

Last Thursday the Sound Transit Board approved a motion directing staff to study bus-rail-streetcar integration and develop transit integration plans with King County Metro and others who may opt in later. The aim is to ensure that transit service is delivered as efficiently and effectively as possible while providing a high-quality customer experience.  

King County Executive and Sound Transit Board Chair Dow Constantine championed the move. “It is essential for transit agencies with overlapping jurisdictions to fully integrate their services … as efficiently as possible,” he said. “Long term, our transportation future requires both adequate revenue and continuous innovation to expand service. This initiative advances the innovation half of that equation.”

Sound Transit and King County Metro are expected to produce a report with findings and recommendations by September.