King County Metro, Trinity Metro expand on-demand public transit services

Residents in King County, Wash., and Tarrant County, Texas, now have access to another mobility option thanks to King County Metro and Trinity Metro expanding the zones of their on-demand public transit services. 

King County Metro expands pilot program area 

King County Metro expanded Metro Flex to the Northshore region in a pilot project. Riders will be able to use the Metro Flex app to book rides on minivans and travel between locations in north Kenmore, Lake Forest Park, Mountlake Terrace and Brier. 

“Metro Flex is already a favorite among riders and we’re thrilled to elevate this service with a major expansion,” said King County Executive Dow Constantine. “On-demand neighborhood transit has the power to transform our region’s transportation landscape, providing residents with seamless access to transit hubs, essential services, shopping and more. This expansion will be a game-changer for many people.” 

Metro Flex Northshore operates Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. 

“We’re excited to bring Metro Flex to the vibrant communities of the Northshore area,” said King County Metro General Manager Michelle Allison. “This cutting-edge, on-demand service will provide effortless transportation options, strengthen community ties and promote sustainable living. We can’t wait for residents to experience these fresh, new transit possibilities firsthand!”  

Metro Flex also opens the door to easier travel between neighborhoods and the new Mountlake Terrace Link light-rail station. This creative solution will help anyone living in the communities served by Metro Flex to get around without using a car, including neighborhoods where regular transit service isn’t currently available. 

“This is so exciting for Mountlake Terrace,” said Mountlake Terrace Mayor Kyoko Matsumoto Wright. “We are becoming a hub for housing, restaurants and services. Northshore Metro Flex is another way to bring us all together and onto light rail. As a region, we are constantly looking for ways to expand options for transit. Our community has always been close to everything and we’re continuing to build those connections.” 

Metro Flex delivers flexible, reliable transportation for $2.75 a trip – the same fare as a ride on a Metro bus. As with other King County Metro services, reduced fares are available for customers with disabilities, customers with lower incomes and seniors. Youth 18 and under ride free. 

King County Metro says a defining feature of Metro Flex is the ability to launch, test and refine the innovative service in partnership with communities. Metro Flex currently operates in Delridge/South Park, Issaquah/Sammamish, Juanita, Kent, Othello, Rainier Beach/Skyway, the Renton Highlands and Tukwila. 

“With King County Metro Flex, service is not only being restored to North Kenmore – but vastly improved,” said Kenmore Mayor Nigel Herbig. “This on-demand service is convenient, affordable and will create opportunities, reduce barriers and ensure every resident can easily reach their destination with ease. Together, we’re paving the way to a more accessible Kenmore.” 

Trinity Metro increases service area, simplifies fares 

Trinity Metro On-Demand launched additional service area adjustments and simplified its fare structure, making it easier for people in Tarrant County to access transit. Service updates include a new Trinity Metro On-Demand North Side. 

“Trinity Metro On-Demand has proven to be a popular choice for riders,” said Trinity Metro COO Wayne Gensler. “Customers tell us they enjoy the convenience and affordable fares, and we see that reflected in our growing ridership numbers. We anticipate these latest expansions will provide the opportunity for more riders to try out the service.” 

What’s new?  

New North Side region: Trinity Metro On-Demand North Side replaced Trinity Metro bus route 45. Key destinations in the North Side area include Savers, Walmart, QuikTrip and TCC Northwest.  

New Tarrant County College Northeast region: Trinity Metro On-Demand TCC Northeast replaced Trinity Metro bus route 23. On-demand service will provide direct trips only between Trinity Lakes Station and TCC’s Northeast Campus.  

What changed? 

Changes to the existing Southside, South Tarrant and Mercantile regions 

• Sycamore Heights was added to the existing Trinity Metro On-Demand Southside region.  
• Crowley and Everman are no longer served in the Trinity Metro On-Demand South Tarrant region as the cities have opted to not provide funding for these neighborhoods after grant funding ended.  
• Blue Mound is no longer in the Trinity Metro On-Demand Mercantile region because residents voted to discontinue service. 

Trinity Metro says the changes are part of its vision for a future of tech-enabled public transportation network through its recently expanded contract with TransitTech company Via. New users can download the Trinity Metro On-Demand app (available in the App Store and Google Play) or call to book a shared ride.  

“Via is proud to continue our work with Trinity Metro to double down on our shared vision for tech-enabled, rider-centric public transportation,” said Via co-COO Alex Lavoie. “Together, we are reimagining transit in Tarrant County to be more resilient and accessible – a crucial step to helping this community pace with population growth and evolving needs.”  

Fare information  

• Trinity Metro On-Demand’s regular fares are now $2 per ride (formerly $3) as part of the agency’s fare simplification plan.  
• The following groups may ride for just $1: Seniors 65-plus, veterans, individuals with disabilities, Medicare card holders, youth ages 5-19 and qualifying TCC students ride free. Riders may be asked to show valid ID as proof of eligibility for reduced fares. 
• Riders can also purchase $4 day passes, which include transfers between Trinity Metro TEXRail, Trinity Metro buses and Trinity Metro On-Demand services.