Summary

Assessing performance of Metro and Road Services in worst storm in decades

Story

In the wake of the heaviest snowfall in nearly two decades, which disrupted Metro bus service and blocked many county roads, the Metropolitan King County Council’s Committee of the Whole will devote its first meeting of 2009 to a review of the County’s snow response and procedures.

Monday, January 12, 2009
9:30 a.m.
King County Council chambers
10th floor, King County Courthouse

“During the recent holiday storms, our bus drivers, maintenance workers and other front-line employees did yeoman’s work under extremely difficult conditions. But despite their efforts, we were unable to deliver reliable service or clear information to Metro riders. That has to change,” said Councilmember Dow Constantine, chair of the Committee of the Whole. “We need to know that Metro will be able to coordinate with agencies charged with snow removal and get riders safely to their destinations.”

“I heard from many frustrated citizens left stranded in the snow due to unreliable and overcrowded bus service and a lack of clear and available information,” said Councilmember Larry Phillips, whose district includes Downtown, Ballard, Magnolia, and Queen Anne. “We expect some inconvenience during snowstorms of this magnitude, but we also expect public transportation to get us there through the toughest conditions. Despite employees’ best efforts, in too many cases, Metro let citizens down. This is a critical time to review King County’s performance, identify shortcomings, and take action that will improve outcomes in the future.”

“As a regular commuter on the 41 from Northgate, I understand the importance of reliable bus service, especially during adverse weather,” said Councilmember Bob Ferguson. “Metro operators, maintenance crews, and customer service staff all worked hard; however, there is significant room for improvement. In particular, we must communicate well with riders regardless of challenging circumstances.”

Councilmembers will hear from Metro Transit and the Road Services Division on:

• The infrequent provision of bus service throughout the storm, and in the weeks following the storm;
• Communications with citizens and the provision of accurate, timely and understandable information, particularly about changes to bus service;
• Metro’s coach performance, maintenance, and incident response;
• The closure of the South Lake Union Streetcar, which Metro operates under a contract with the city of Seattle;
• Snow removal on county roads;
• Effective coordination with local agencies, especially the Seattle Department of Transportation.

The Committee of the Whole is the only standing committee on which all nine members serve. It considers legislation and policy issues of interest to the entire Council.