King County Metro Announces Major Service Expansion and Enhanced Link Light Rail Connections

King County Metro has unveiled a significant service expansion set to begin on August 29, 2026, featuring nine new routes and over 3,000 additional weekly bus trips. The initiative focuses on strengthening the regional transit network by improving connections to Sound Transit’s Link light rail stations, particularly in South King County. This expansion aims to increase transit frequency and reliability while introducing on-demand services to better serve the region's growing infrastructure.

Starting August 29, King County Metro will implement one of its largest service expansions in years, adding nine new bus routes and more than 3,000 weekly trips to its schedule. Executive Girmay Zahilay characterized the move as the single largest bus service investment in South King County in a generation, emphasizing shorter wait times and improved access to employment and education. The expansion specifically targets South King County to bolster all-day and weekend service while creating seamless transfers to new Sound Transit Link light rail stations. Additionally, Metro General Manager Michelle Allison noted that these changes are designed to extend the reach of public transportation by linking neighborhoods directly to the region's expanding rail network.

The service update includes the launch of Metro Flex, an on-demand transit pilot in Auburn and Federal Way beginning August 31. This service will utilize accessible minivans to connect riders with transit hubs and local destinations for the same fare as a standard bus ride. On the Eastside, service improvements will connect communities from Bellevue to the Snoqualmie Valley with the 2 Line and other Link light rail services across Lake Washington. In North King County, the agency is focusing on stronger connections to new Link stations and improved east-west mobility, specifically linking Lake City to Aurora Avenue across I-5 based on community feedback.

In downtown Seattle, Route 8 will see increased frequency as part of the Seattle Transit Measure, utilizing new bus lanes on Denny Way. Seattle Mayor Katie B. Wilson highlighted that the measure funds 180,000 bus trips annually, supporting the city's goal of making car-free living more viable. The expansion coincides with Sound Transit’s own fall service changes, which also take effect on August 29 and involve adjustments to various ST Express bus routes. Transit Advisory Commission member Lin Robinson and community leaders like Karia Wong emphasized that these integrated changes will significantly enhance regional mobility, making it easier for residents to navigate between suburban areas like Auburn and urban centers like SODO.