Seattle transit measure leads with more than 72% support in early results

Seattle’s transit measure renewal held a commanding lead in early election results, with more than 72% of votes counted in favor, according to a news release from the mayor’s office.

The measure would provide about $138 million annually over 10 years through a 0.3% sales tax. Funding would support additional bus service, free ORCA cards, streetcar operations, and projects intended to reduce transit delays.

More bus trips throughout the day

Most of the funding would pay for about 275,000 bus trips annually — 95,000 more than the current Seattle Transit Measure, which voters passed in 2020.

Service investments would focus on neighborhoods that depend most on transit, including east-west routes, connections to light rail stations, and areas planned for housing and employment growth.

The city also plans to expand midday, nighttime, and weekend service. According to the announcement, ridership during those periods has grown faster than traditional peak-hour commuting in recent years.

“Not everyone works 9 to 5, and our transit system shouldn’t either,” acting Seattle Department of Transportation Director Angela Brady said in the release.

Other funding would support construction to address locations where buses get delayed and improve accessibility and comfort at bus stops. The measure would also fund city staff who oversee permitting and help advance future Sound Transit light rail stations.

Free ORCA cards would expand to 22,000 people

The measure would add 12,000 free ORCA cards for Housing Choice Voucher participants, bringing the total number of passes provided through the programs to 22,000.

The existing 10,000 cards serve Seattle Promise Scholars, low-income Seattle Preschool families and Seattle Housing Authority residents.

Seattle Housing Authority Executive Director Rod Brandon said more than 6,600 residents took more than 1.3 million rides through its partnership with SDOT last year.

“Access to reliable, affordable transit is essential for the residents we serve,” Brandon said.

Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson described the proposed investments as the largest expansion of transit service in Seattle’s history. Seattle City Councilmember Dionne Foster said the 10-year renewal would prevent a funding gap when the current measure expires.

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