Give us better transit or else, Burien City Council tells Sound Transit Monday

During a June 15 meeting, the Burien City Council expressed dissatisfaction with Sound Transit for excluding the city from its transit project proposals. Chelsea Levy from Sound Transit indicated a financing ballot measure might be on the table by 2016, driven by a forecast of significant population and job growth in the region. Council members underscored the risk of Burien being left out of future developments, calling for direct connections to the Link light rail and improved transit services. They suggested extending light rail from West Seattle through Burien to SeaTac, emphasizing the community’s needs. Councilmember Lauren Berkowitz lamented the loss of bus routes that previously benefited residents, leading to longer commutes.

The council urged Burien to advocate for its inclusion in Sound Transit’s planning, recognizing it as one of the most populated areas in South King County. City Manager Kamuron Gurol stated that the feedback would help shape Burien's response to Sound Transit. The ongoing dialogue reflects the community's desire for better transit connectivity and service.