Sound Transit is proposing changes to ST Express bus service to increase service between Seattle, Federal Way and Auburn.

Service changes will take effect in March or September 2020.

Sound Transit released the proposed changes Monday as part of the annual Service Implementation Plan. Sound Transit intends these proposed service changes to improve reliability, relieve overcrowding, build ridership and increase productivity.

Sound Transit continually monitors performance and identifies routes or trips that do not meet standards or that need additional investment, ensuring that the agency uses resources efficiently. Sound Transit analyzes all routes through its annual service plan. The plan proposes service changes for the following year, and provides an outlook for future service levels and expansions over the next five years.

The changes aim to increase ST Express productivity and reliability:

Weekend trips on Route 577 would convert into Route 578 trips and extend from Federal Way to Auburn. Every other Route 578 trip would end in Auburn and every other trip would continue to Sumner and Puyallup. Overall frequency between Seattle and Federal Way would remain unchanged.

The proposal is available at soundtransit.org/sip. Sound Transit invites the public to comment on the plan by phone, in person or email through Oct. 7.

Comment on the proposed service changes:

Email or phone

Comment by phone at 1-866-940-4387 or email servicechanges@soundtransit.org

Public hearing

Thursday, Oct. 3, 12:30 p.m.

Union Station – Ruth Fisher Boardroom

401 S. Jackson St.

Seattle, WA 98104

Sound Transit staff will review all of the public feedback, and revise the draft plan if necessary. The Sound Transit Board will consider the plan for adoption in November.