Council approves legislation providing improved Metro service to Bellevue College

May 31, 2011

Summary

Student concerns reflected in Hague amendment adopted by Council

Story

Input and public testimony from students at Bellevue College played a key role in an amendment adopted as part of the fall transit service changes approved unanimously today by the Metropolitan King County Council.

Council Vice Chair Jane Hague sponsored the amendment, which will provide greater bus service to Bellevue College. Hague offered the amendment last week after students raised concerns during public testimony that the current proposed route were inconvenient for bus riders and would encourage students to drive – only adding to the region’s gridlock.

“Metro needs to take into account major education centers when modifying routes,” said Hague. “Bellevue College is the third largest higher learning institution in the state. It’s important that we listen to these kids and provide them with a viable option to get to school.”

Hague’s amendment revives an alignment of Route 240 proposed as part of the original service changes for the fall, but were changed after being sent to the County Council. With the amendment, Route 240 will now serve Eastgate Park-and-Ride, which closely borders the Bellevue College Campus. Beginning in Renton, the 240 will provide an easy commuter option for south King County students. The route will go into effect in October.

“I want to commend the Bellevue College students that testified before the Council,” said Hague. “They really did a good job and this change would not have happened without their activism.”