Seattle

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Buses

Public bus services are an integral part of Seattle's transportation network, providing widespread coverage throughout the city and surrounding areas.

Sections

Overview of the Bus System in Seattle

Seattle’s bus system is primarily operated by King County Metro Transit (commonly referred to as Metro). It is one of the most efficient and widely used public transportation options in the city, connecting neighborhoods, suburbs, and major attractions. Additionally, Sound Transit operates regional express buses that connect Seattle to nearby cities like Bellevue, Tacoma, and Everett.

How the Bus System Works

  1. Routes and Coverage:

    • Metro buses serve Seattle and King County, covering urban neighborhoods, suburban areas, and key destinations like downtown Seattle, the University of Washington, and Sea-Tac Airport.
    • Sound Transit buses provide longer-distance service to cities in the Puget Sound region.
    • Buses are identified by route numbers, and many routes have frequent service, especially during peak hours.

  2. Types of Service:

    • Local Routes: Serve neighborhoods and local destinations.
    • RapidRide: A bus rapid transit service with faster, more frequent buses and fewer stops. Routes are labeled with letters (e.g., RapidRide A Line, D Line).
    • Express Routes: Limited-stop service for faster travel, often used for commuting.

  3. Schedules:

    • Buses generally run from early morning (around 5:00 AM) to late evening (midnight or later), with some routes offering 24-hour service.
    • Weekend and holiday schedules may differ, so check ahead.

Fare Costs

  1. Standard Fares (as of October 2023):

    • Adults (19-64 years): $2.75 per ride.
    • Youth (18 and under): Free.
    • Seniors (65+) and riders with disabilities: $1.00 with a valid Regional Reduced Fare Permit (RRFP).
    • Fares for Sound Transit express buses may vary depending on the distance traveled.

  2. Transfers:

    • If you pay with an ORCA card (see below), you get a free two-hour transfer between Metro buses, Sound Transit buses, and other participating transit systems.

  3. Passes:

    • Monthly passes are available and can save money if you ride frequently. Prices depend on your typical fare.

Payment Methods

  1. ORCA Card:

    • The ORCA (One Regional Card for All) card is the most convenient way to pay for bus rides. It’s a reloadable smart card that works across multiple transit systems in the Puget Sound region, including Metro, Sound Transit, and the Link light rail.
    • Purchase an ORCA card online, at vending machines in transit stations, or at retail locations like grocery stores.
    • Load money onto the card as "E-purse" funds or purchase a monthly pass.

  2. Cash:

    • You can pay with exact cash when boarding the bus. However, no change is given, so bring the exact fare.

  3. Mobile Payment:

    • Some buses accept mobile payment apps like the Transit GO Ticket app, which allows you to purchase and display tickets on your smartphone.

Schedules and Planning Your Trip

  1. Real-Time Information:

    • Use the OneBusAway app or the Transit app to get real-time bus arrival information and plan your trip.
    • Google Maps and the King County Metro website also provide reliable trip planning tools.

  2. Printed Schedules:

    • Printed schedules are available at major transit hubs and libraries, but digital tools are more up-to-date.

  3. Frequency:

    • Many routes, especially RapidRide lines, run every 10-15 minutes during peak hours. Off-peak service may be less frequent, so check schedules in advance.

Accessibility Features

Seattle’s buses are designed to be accessible for all riders:

  1. Wheelchair Accessibility:
    • All buses are equipped with ramps or lifts and have designated spaces for wheelchairs.
  2. Priority Seating:
    • Priority seating is available near the front of the bus for seniors and riders with disabilities.
  3. Audio and Visual Announcements:
    • Stops are announced both audibly and visually to assist riders with visual or hearing impairments.
  4. Service Animals:
    • Service animals are allowed on all buses.

Important Bus Routes for Popular Areas

Here are some key routes to help you reach popular destinations in Seattle:

  1. Downtown Seattle:

    • Most bus routes pass through or terminate in downtown Seattle. Routes like the RapidRide C, D, and E Lines are particularly useful.

  2. Pike Place Market:

    • Routes: 10, 11, 47, and RapidRide C Line.

  3. Seattle Center (Space Needle, Museum of Pop Culture):

    • Routes: 1, 2, 3, 4, 8, and the RapidRide D Line.

  4. University of Washington:

    • Routes: 44, 45, 48, 49, 70, and 372. The RapidRide E Line also connects downtown to the University District.

  5. Capitol Hill:

    • Routes: 10, 11, 12, and 49.

  6. Ballard:

    • Routes: 40, 44, and the RapidRide D Line.

  7. Sea-Tac Airport:

    • Route: 124 (local service) or Sound Transit’s Route 560 (regional service). Alternatively, you can take the Link light rail.

  8. West Seattle:

    • Routes: 21, 50, and the RapidRide C Line.

Special Tips and Considerations

  1. Boarding and Exiting:

    • Enter through the front door to pay your fare. Exit through the rear door unless you need assistance.
    • Signal your stop by pulling the cord or pressing the stop button.

  2. Peak Hours:

    • Buses can get crowded during rush hours (7:00-9:00 AM and 4:00-6:00 PM). Plan accordingly.

  3. Weather Preparedness:

    • Seattle is known for its rain. Bring an umbrella or raincoat, as some bus stops may not have shelters.

  4. Safety:

    • Seattle buses are generally safe, but keep an eye on your belongings and avoid isolated stops late at night.

  5. Bike-Friendly:

    • All Metro buses are equipped with bike racks on the front. Let the driver know if you need to load or unload your bike.

  6. Free Youth Fares:

    • If you’re traveling with children or teens under 18, they can ride for free, but they may need to show a valid ID or school card.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate Seattle’s bus system efficiently and enjoyably. If you have any specific questions or need help planning a trip, feel free to ask!