Signs of normalcy Youll have to pay to ride the bus again (but fare enforcement remains suspended)

King County Metro will resume fare collection for bus rides on Capitol Hill starting October 1st, bringing a sense of normalcy back to transit operations. While the collection of fares will restart, fare enforcement will be suspended until at least the end of the year, allowing riders to adapt during this transitional period. Metro continues to emphasize the importance of "essential trips only" as King County gradually reopens from COVID-19 restrictions. The announcement indicates that as transit use increases, so will the need for funding to support services. In addition, King County Executive Dow Constantine has committed to exploring alternatives to traditional fare enforcement, which has disproportionately affected riders of color.

This initiative is aimed at developing a more equitable system by 2022. The changes reflect an ongoing effort to balance safety, accessibility, and fairness in transit services. As public health guidelines evolve, Metro is preparing for a broader range of transit needs in the future.