Description
Given the urgency of the climate crisis and the need to advance ambitious local action despite uncertainty at the federal level, public transportation must be a cornerstone of the County’s climate strategy. Meeting VMT goals is key to meeting communitywide GHG reductions targets, and the County must plan for a more dramatic and transformative expansion of transit service than previously envisioned.
Metro Connects, passed by King County Council in 2021, provides a vision for future service networks with fast, frequent, and reliable service all day, every day throughout the County. Implementation of Metro Connects exceeds available funding, and additional resources will be needed for Metro to achieve the vision and goals identified in the plan.
The County will collaborate with local elected leaders and community members to develop a decision package and explore a regional ballot funding measure to create a regional, innovative, and integrated mobility network that is safe, equitable, and sustainable. Specifically, the County will seek additional funding to implement Metro Connects and the greater levels of service needed to meet VMT goals, to help sustain and grow service and implement the supportive capital programs. Regional funding will require approval from the King County Transportation Benefit District, King County voter-approved funding, or both. Metro, in partnership with local elected leaders, will continue to evaluate new sources of revenue, many of which may require approval from the Washington State Legislature and ensure support for public transportation is integrated into future climate policy revenue sources. The County will also explore all potential funding options that could be implemented without additional state legislative action or ballot measures.