MYNORTHWEST NEWS

Bus riders deal with Metro Transit changes

Oct 1, 2012, 5:11 AM | Updated: 11:52 am

A major change for King County Metro Transit riders could cause delays on the way home Monday afternoon.

All passengers must pay their fares when they get on the bus. Up until Friday, outbound commuters paid on their way stepping off the bus.

“During this transition, there could be slower traffic in the downtown core, but we expect everything to smooth out in the coming days,” said Metro Transit spokesperson Jeff Switzer.

The change is just one of many the in transit system’s overhaul that went into effect over the weekend. Metro Transit also did away with the free ride zone in downtown Seattle, so now everyone pays.

The agency made changes to 79 routes, too; some as simple as moving stops. Others as severe as canceling service.

Metro will have people in green vests out to help riders get where they need to go and answer any questions.

Meanwhile, if you drive, it’s going to cost you a lot more to get or renew your driver’s license starting Monday.

It’ll be $80 to get a new license, formerly $45, and $45 to renew, which was $25. Getting a simple ID card is also increasing by $25.

The increase will help raise money for the general transportation fund to help maintain roads, bridges, ferries, and transit systems.

MyNorthwest News

This NOAA satellite image shows the magnitude of the storm moving inland from the Pacific Ocean. (P...

Ted Buehner, KIRO Newsradio Meteorologist

What to expect as Western Washington’s first big fall storm arrives Saturday night

The fall season’s first strong weather system will sweep through Western Washington tonight, bringing strong winds and rain.

1 hour ago

Pierce County man sentenced child sex crimes...

Regan Gallo-Fenz

Pierce County man sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for child sex crimes

A Pierce County man has been sentenced to 15 years in federal prison after attempting to arrange the sexual abuse of children and producing child sexual abuse material, federal prosecutors announced.

10 hours ago

home listings...

Frank Lenzi

Home listings jump more than 25%: Is it a buyer’s market?

If you’re thinking about buying a house, now might be a good time: Home listings have risen, and pending sales have declined.

22 hours ago

Grays Harbor...

KIRO 7 News Staff

Grays Harbor deputies seek information about deadly hit-and-run near Satsop

The Grays Harbor County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s help after a 53-year-old man was found dead along a road near Satsop last week.

22 hours ago

first responders...

Luke Duecy

Renton firefighter shot while responding to call highlights dangers facing first responders

A Renton firefighter was shot. The shooting is another example of the dangers first responders face while trying to help people in crisis.

23 hours ago

Macklemore (3)...

Julia Dallas

Macklemore says Climate Pledge Arena among venues that rejected his ‘Free Palestine Tour’

Macklemore said several venues, including Climate Pledge Arena, have rejected his efforts to bring his “Free Palestine Tour” to the U.S.

23 hours ago

Bus riders deal with Metro Transit changes