Seattle-Area Transit Line to Connect Communities, Create Economic Opportunity

King County Metro broke ground on its RapidRide I Line, which will strengthen regional connections south of Seattle while supporting small businesses and workforce development. The $174 million, 17-mile project will transform the existing Route 160 corridor into a high-capacity transit line with 82 RapidRide stations providing fast, reliable transportation.

Many of the area’s residents rely on transit to access jobs, education, and essential services. When complete, riders will benefit from faster trips, more frequent service, and improved connections across the regional transportation network. Metro Executive Girmay Zahilay remarked, “This new line will help more residents and families get to work, school, medical appointments, and other essential services without needing a car.”

At least 20 percent of the total contract value for construction of the line will go to certified small or disadvantaged businesses. In addition, the project aims to have 15 percent of total labor hours completed by apprentices, helping build a pipeline of skilled workers.

This project is supported by nearly $80 million in federal funding through the FTA’s Capital Investment Grant Program, along with more than $19 million in additional federal grants, $27.5 million in state funding, and $47.5 million in King County Metro funds.

Service is expected to begin in 2027. With more frequent buses (every 10 minutes during peak periods), morning and evening commutes for riders are expected to be 26-30 percent faster. The line will link riders to downtown Renton, the future Renton Transit Center, Kent Station, and Auburn Station, as well as the RapidRide F Line, future Sound Transit Stride S1 Line service, Sounder trains, and local bus routes—providing access to destinations across the region.