ORCA Passport News: April 2026

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

ORCA Business Passport News

Metro supports Seattle’s summer of soccer with Sea26

3

King County Metro is preparing for a busy summer of soccer through its Sea26 initiative, helping riders travel to matches and events safely and efficiently. With large crowds expected, Metro is encouraging transit as a convenient way to get to and from stadiums and fan celebration sites. 

To support riders, Metro has launched a new Sea26 webpage with up-to-date information on transit options, service plans, and travel tips to help people navigate events across the region. 

Seattle will host six FIFA World Cup 2026 matches, with more than 750,000 visitors anticipated, significantly increasing travel demand. Metro is preparing by strengthening coordination, enhancing safety planning, and working closely with regional partners to maintain reliable service for both visitors and daily riders. 

Metro bus stop schedules get a fresh new look

King County Metro is updating bus stop schedules with a refreshed, easier-to-read design. The new schedules feature larger text, improved layout, and clearer route information to help riders quickly find what they need while planning trips or waiting at stops. 

These updates support Metro’s ongoing efforts to improve accessibility and usability for all riders, including those with low vision. The refreshed schedules are being rolled out gradually across King County. 

2

Celebrating 35 years of the U-Pass at the University of Washington 

1

King County Metro and the University of Washington are celebrating 35 years of the U-Pass program, a transit benefit that has transformed how students, faculty, and staff get around the region. Since its launch in 1991, the U-Pass has expanded access to affordable, unlimited transit while reducing drive-alone trips and supporting more sustainable travel choices.  

The program helped boost transit ridership and reduce parking demand, paving the way for long-term investments in transit connections to campus. Today, it continues to connect thousands of riders to school, work, and opportunities across the region. 

Learn more about the U-Pass and its impact. 

Water Taxi launches summer schedule with late-night weekend service

4

King County Metro’s Water Taxi has launched its summer sailing schedule, including the return of late-night weekend service and the addition of Sunday service to West Seattle. The updated schedule offers more frequent trips and extended hours, making it easier to travel between downtown Seattle and West Seattle during the warmer months. 

Late-night sailings support riders attending evening events, dining, or enjoying waterfront activities, providing a reliable and scenic alternative to driving. 

These seasonal service enhancements help meet increased summer demand while offering greater flexibility and convenience for travel across Elliott Bay. 

Learn more about the Water Taxi’s summer sailing schedule. 

Washington State Ferry fare increases effective May 1

5

In 2025, The Washington State Transportation Commission (WSTC) approved a two-phase fare change for Washington State Ferries as part of the 2025–2027 fare-setting process. Ferry fares increased by 3% on October 1, 2025, and will increase by another 3% on May 1, 2026.  The fare change included adjustments to passenger and vehicle fares, along with updates to seasonal pricing to reflect higher demand during peak travel periods. 

Effective May 1, The WSTC is also piloting increased validity for Multi-Ride Passes, which currently cover 10 passenger round-trips on all routes and remain valid for 90 days from the date of purchase. The new pilot will increase the validity of the Multi-Ride pass to 120 days from the date of purchase. 

These changes aim to help meet ferry system revenue targets while maintaining service levels across the region. Fare updates are reviewed through a multi-year process, with final decisions made after evaluation and consideration of public input. 

Share your feedback in Metro’s international bus service survey

6

King County Metro is inviting riders and community members to take part in an international bus service survey to help improve transit locally and worldwide. Metro is one of several agencies participating, using results to compare performance and identify opportunities for improvement. 

The survey is open to everyone, whether you ride often or not, and responses will help shape future service. Participation is quick, confidential, and open through May 10. 

Learn more and take the Metro’s international bus service survey. 

Sound Transit seeks feedback on updated System Plan

7

Sound Transit is seeking public feedback on updates to its long-term System Plan, which guides future transit expansion and infrastructure across the region. The plan outlines priorities for investments such as light rail extensions, bus rapid transit, and system improvements. 

Community input will help shape how Sound Transit plans for growth, improves mobility, and responds to evolving transportation needs across the Puget Sound region. Feedback gathered during this process will inform future updates and decisions. 

This is an opportunity for riders, communities, and stakeholders to help influence the future of regional transit.