Providing Mass Transit for a Growing Region
By the year 2030, growth will lead to a 35 percent increase in employment and a 30 percent increase in vehicle travel in the region. By 2030, the typical commuter could spend nearly an entire work week of additional time stuck in traffic. Starting in 2009, Sound Transit 2 (ST2), approved by voters on November 4, 2008, provides immediate funding for significant express bus expansions while launching major light rail, commuter rail and station access expansions. The plan is summarized here.
- Immediate express bus expansions: 17% increase in bus service beginning in 2009
- More commuter rail service: 65% more Tacoma-Seattle commuter rail capacity
- Expanded light rail system: 36 new miles, creating a 55-mile light rail regional system
- Easier access for transit riders: Improves access and parking throughout the region
- Paying for the system: Typical new cost per adult is about $69 per year
- Accountability and local control: Binding tax rollback provisions and geographic equity
- Livable, sustainable communities: Takes cars off roads, reduces pollution and saves time
The Sound Transit 2 expansions are projected to increase the number of riders who use Sound Transit services each weekday by 80 percent.
2030 Estimated Daily Ridership
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