Can they ever really fix the 8?
Seattle's Route 8 bus, which connects Seattle Center and Capitol Hill, has struggled with reliability, often failing to meet Metro's 80% on-time performance goal. Last summer, the bus's on-time rate dropped below 40% during rush hour, prompting the Transit Riders Union and Central Seattle Greenways to launch the "Fix the L8" campaign. Regular rider Jamie Guerriero expressed frustration over the bus's unpredictable schedule, stating he must leave an hour early to make it to events. Recent improvements along the route include sidewalk repairs and better signage, but campaign organizers argue these measures are insufficient. They are calling for the city to implement two-way bus lanes and increase service frequency to enhance rider experience.
SDOT has agreed to conduct a traffic analysis to seek long-term solutions, but delays in this project have caused discontent among riders. The campaign aims to engage new city council members and remind them of their commitment to public transit. Organizers emphasize that significant changes are crucial for meaningful improvement in service.