Everett bus route along Casino Road to stores near mall to be no cost for next six months

Everett will temporarily offer free transit rides along Casino Road after the closure of the Fred Meyer store, aimed at assisting local residents. The fare-free Route 12 will connect Seaway Boulevard to the Everett Mall until March 2026. A shuttle van will transport passengers to the South Everett Walmart and Trader Joe's, providing essential shopping options. The bus currently stops at Casino Road and Evergreen Way every 30 minutes on weekdays and every 40 minutes on weekends. Mayor Cassie Franklin labeled the situation an emergency, highlighting that about 10% of Casino Road's 20,000 residents lack access to a car.

This initiative addresses the needs of those who relied on Fred Meyer for groceries and other necessities. The city’s regulations allow the mayor to establish a free route in emergencies, underscoring the program's urgency. Overall, this effort aims to support vulnerable community members during a critical transition.