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As King County Water Taxi midday sailings to Vashon Island approach their first anniversary, King County secured needed funding from the state Legislature to continue the service.
Midday service to Vashon Island on the King County Water Taxi will continue at least through June 2027. The necessary funding for these year-round, weekday voyages was secured as part of the state transportation budget adopted on May 20.
The introduction of the first-ever midday Vashon Water Taxi sailings last year led to a 55% increase in ridership from July through December 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. Vashon midday sailings average 3,500 riders a month.
“Continuing these in-demand midday sailings to Vashon is a win for island residents and visitors alike,” said King County Executive Shannon Braddock. “I applaud the collaboration across our region and our state to make this happen.”
Thanks to the collaboration between county and state leaders, funding was secured to maintain the four midday round-trip sailings. Executive Shannon Braddock worked with state Sen. Emily Alvarado and County Councilmember Teresa Mosqueda — whose districts both include Vashon Island — to secure the funding needed to continue the popular service.
“Midday water taxi service has been a lifeline for the Vashon community over the last year, providing reliable connections to healthcare, employment and local businesses,” said Councilmember Mosqueda. “Ridership numbers and feedback I’ve received from islanders underscore the success of adding these trips to mitigate reduced Washington State Ferries service. I’m thrilled that we will be able to continue this service that is so vital to Vashon’s public health and local economy. A huge thanks to the Vashon community for their advocacy and to our state legislative partners, led by Senator Emily Alvarado, for their partnership.”
The Vashon route of the Water Taxi operates 10 round trips each weekday, connecting riders between the island’s North-End Ferry Terminal and Pier 50 in downtown Seattle. It costs about $2.5 million per year to retain the midday service in place, which first began on July 1, 2024. The adopted funding means the runs will continue through the 2027 biennium.
“Leading up to last year’s launch of midday service, Vashon residents shared its vital importance,” said King County Metro General Manager Michelle Allison. “Thanks to these expanded sailings, Vashon Islanders can reliably connect to appointments, classes, errands, shopping and much more — and local businesses benefit greatly, too.”
“These funds provide the needed stability for scheduling and personnel to help maintain the service," said King County Metro Marine Division Director Terry Federer. “Securing continued Vashon midday sailings is a testament to local advocacy, the thousands of passengers who rely on this service and successful partnerships across our state.”
Water Taxi fares to Vashon are $6.75 for adults ($5.75 with an ORCA card). Passengers 18 and under ride free. Reduced fares are available for seniors and people with disabilities or lower incomes.
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