South King County communities, including Auburn, Kent, and Renton, are set to benefit from an $80 million federal grant to expand King County Metro’s RapidRide network with the I Line, King County Executive Dow Constantine announced.
The RapidRide I Line, scheduled to launch in 2027, will enhance Metro’s current Route 160, connecting Auburn Station to downtown Renton with faster, more reliable service.
RapidRide routes feature frequent buses, dedicated lanes, and transit signal priority, ensuring efficient transportation for residents.
“This new service will provide fast, frequent connections for our growing South King County communities, making it easier for people in Renton, Kent, and Auburn to get where they need to go,” Constantine said.
Federal Transit Administration Region 10 Administrator Susan Fletcher highlighted the I Line’s impact on some of the region’s most transit-dependent areas. “The RapidRide I Line will provide cleaner, faster bus service for thousands of riders, increasing access to jobs and opportunities,” Fletcher said.
The project will also offer improved connections to Sounder commuter trains at Auburn and Kent stations, helping reduce reliance on private vehicles and easing traffic congestion.
“This is going to make a big difference for people across South King County,” said U.S. Senator Patty Murray. “I’m thrilled to announce nearly $80 million in federal funding for this project, which will deliver more reliable public transit for a growing region.”
King County Councilmember Dave Upthegrove called the funding a “game-changer” for South King County.
“Reliable, efficient, and accessible public transit is essential to connecting people to jobs, schools, and services while reducing traffic congestion and emissions,” Upthegrove said.
RapidRide I Line is part of King County Metro’s broader strategy to expand high-capacity transit. The J Line (connecting downtown Seattle and the University District) is under construction, with the K and R Lines in development.
Photo by S.S. Sol Duc – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=28975633
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