King County Metro to gradually increase passenger limits

During the next six months, King County Metro will incrementally increase passenger limits.

The approach comes as the number of vaccinated residents continues to increase, eligibility for vaccines expands to everyone 16 and older on April 15 and King County entered Phase 3 of the “Healthy Washington – Roadmap to Recovery” plan on March 22.

On April 19, King County Metro will modify passenger limits to 40 percent of pre-COVID-19 capacity (50 percent of seated capacity). This means the passenger limit will move from 12 to 20 customers on 40-foot buses, and from 18 to 30 customers on 60-foot buses. King County Metro will also make similar passenger limit updates on other modes. This increase in load limits is in step with other transit agencies and in line with Washington Gov. Jay Inslee’s guidance for public transit agencies.

King County Metro says it will continue to maintain and strengthen safety protocols, and to carefully monitor public health guidance and other safety measures in the weeks and months ahead. If conditions allow, the intent is to increase capacity limits to 70 percent of pre-COVID-19 levels in early July, or earlier if the county enters Phase 4 sooner. King County Metro would then aim to retire reduced capacity levels prior to the Sept. 18 service change.

King County Metro also encourages those who are already eligible and everyone else who will become eligible on April 15 to get their vaccination. After making a reservation, riders can read Metro’s “Take Transit to Take Your Shot: Here are ways to get to your vaccination appointment.”

King County Metro is also coordinating a vaccination clinic this month for King County government essential workers.