Summary

Possible action on the potential reduction in bus service after Council completes work on County Budget

Story

The Metropolitan King County Council today referred back to the Council’s Transportation, Economy and Environment Committee legislation to implement the February 2015 transit service changes.

“During the council’s review of the Executive Proposed 2015-2016 Budget, we have an opportunity to thoroughly examine all aspects of the transit budget,” said Council Chair Larry Phillips.  “Our goal is to continue providing an efficient and productive system that responds to ridership needs, but just as importantly responds to a growing demand for service. Employers, business owners, drivers, bus riders all need a system that works, and one that supports our region and expanding economy.”

The legislation has been sent back to committee for possible action after the Council has completed its work on the 2015-2016 County Budget.

“The 2015-2016 budget deliberations will examine Metro’s financial policies. That work and Metro’s continued efforts to be leaner led to today’s Council action. I am grateful that my colleagues, the Executive and our city partners continue to work hard to ensure that we keep as many buses on the road as fiscally possible. While we may have staved off some coming cuts, this weekend the largest service cuts in Metro’s history went into effect,” said Councilmember Joe McDermott who chairs the Budget & Fiscal Management Committee. “I want to be very clear that our region’s transit needs are not met and will not be met unless more action is taken.”

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