King County Metro Launching Major Service Expansion

King County, WA, will see expanded bus service by the end of August. The King County Metro expansion includes nine new routes, more than 3,000 additional bus trips per week, and better connections to new South King County Link light rail stations. In addition, the agency is launching an on-demand transit service—Metro Flex—in two locations.

King County Executive Girmay Zahilay said, “These improvements mean shorter waits, stronger connections, and more opportunities for people to get where they need to go, whether that’s work, school, childcare, or home.”

The changes reflect Metro’s largest service expansion in recent years and will make public transit more convenient, reliable, and better connected to the region’s light rail network. While bus schedules are adjusted twice a year to respond to ridership demand, traffic conditions, and the expanding transit network, the new service change responds directly to rider feedback with increased frequency and extended hours. Further, the redesigned service reduces duplication with light rail while improving connections.

“Across King County, Metro bus routes connect communities to dozens of light rail stations, extending the reach of public transportation farther than ever before,” said Metro General Manager Michelle Allison. “When buses link up with light rail, it doesn’t just make trips easier, it helps connect people. Strong transit connections bring neighborhoods closer, make everyday travel simpler, and give everyone a clear path to reach the places they want to go.”