Transit has always been a popular cost-efficient mode for commuting to campus. While transit options were reduced during the pandemic, regional transit agencies are preparing for increased demand as we plan to return to campus.
Visit the transit page for more information about using transit as a commute mode.
Service returning to “normal”
Transit agency vehicles, including boats, buses, and trains, are now operating at full capacity, which means riders are less likely to wait for the next bus out of capacity restrictions. We are anticipating transit options will increase during the transit agency’s scheduled fall service change on October 2, 2021. To find the service status for your route, visit the service alert page for your bus route’s transit agency.
North-Link restructure
Three new light rail stations are opening October 2, 2021 in the U-District, Roosevelt, and Northgate. With the new stations opening, regional transit agencies are restructuring transit routes to connect with the Link light rail. For example, all CT 800-series bus routes and three ST bus routes will go to the light rail at Northgate instead of coming to campus.
Make sure you know how your commute is being impacted by visiting the website of the transit agency that manages your go-to route.
Safety measures on public transit
Even though some operations are returning to the way things were pre-pandemic, safety precautions will remain in place on regional transit.
- Safety partitions for drivers and upgraded air filters were added to vehicles during the pandemic and will continue to be included in transit vehicles.
- Passengers will still be required to wear masks and mask dispensers are being installed on transit vehicles to ensure all passengers have one available to them.
- Daily vehicle disinfections will continue to be standard practice.
To help keep everyone safe, please continue to wear a mask on transit, stay home when sick, and pay with an ORCA Card or U-PASS.
Additional resources: King County Metro’s safety page, COVID-19 Prevention for Transit from UW EH&S.
Transportation Services has developed a poster that highlights these safety recommendations. Please share and post where relevant.
How to find and pick a transit route
The transit page has a full list of resources for transit planning in the Puget Sound region. With so many resources and transit options available, it can be overwhelming to figure out which option is right for you. We recommend starting with Google Maps to see what routes are available from your starting point. Here are some factors to consider when comparing available options:
Where to start your trip
Unless there is a bus stop conveniently located within a few blocks of your home, you may be having trouble figuring out the best place to start your commute. If you look up your commute in Google Maps and see no transit options available or no options within your comfortable walking distance, it may be time to find a Park & Ride. Once you find a suitable option, you can use Google Maps with that location as the starting point to review route options for your start time.
Once you choose a Park & Ride, take some time to plan how you will get there and whether you need to consider peak traffic times. Some locations require parking permits and many have secure bike parking available if you would like to bike there instead. Doing a little extra research can make your commute smoother when you’re ready to get started.
How to pay for transit
The safest way to pay for transit is with an ORCA card or U-PASS. The U-PASS is a great option for anyone using transit for more than two round-trip rides per week and can be used for payment on most regional transit services. Visit the U-PASS page to learn more about the program, including eligibility for the U-PASS and what the U-PASS covers.
What if there’s an emergency and I need to leave work suddenly?
Transportation Services offers a comprehensive Emergency Ride Home program for current UW faculty or staff members with an active U-PASS membership or a permit for one of Transportation Services’ secure bike facilities (house or locker) on campus. Visit the U-PASS page for more information on how to utilize this program.