28 Sep Metro Transit preps for construction disruption in 2011

Starting this February, Metro will be changing many bus routes that service downtown, Pioneer Square and the SODO area because of the long-term construction work for the Alaskan Way Viaduct and Seawall Replacement program.

Because the construction period is expected to last anywhere from 6 – 8 years, Metro is trying to make strategic changes now, instead of changing bus routes throughout the duration of the construction, which could be frustrating and confusing for transit users.

With that in mind, starting next February Metro will divert much of its downtown service away from First Avenue between Edgar Martinez Drive and Broad Street. Most of these bus routes will move to Third Avenue. It will also result in some changes for bus travel on Second and Fourth avenues, as some routes are moved there to accommodate the bus changes on First and Third.

The partner agencies are asking for everyone’s help in reducing the number of vehicles on the roads during construction. Buses, trains, vanpools and carpools will be a good option for people who must travel to and through these areas. And, there is also telecommuting, biking (yeah!) or walking.

More information about which bus routes are affected and how they change will be available on Metro Online this fall. Most of these changes start Feb. 5, 2011, although a few could begin in January depending on construction schedules.

These changes are separate from any revisions in Metro’s fall service change that start in a few weeks on Oct. 2.