Local bus service to expand routes into Wilderness Rim, Riverbend neighborhoods
Published 11:30 am Monday, March 28, 2016
After gathering input from local residents at the public hearing meetings in early March, Snoqualmie Valley Transportation (SVT) has just announced plans to begin re-routing current service in order to accommodate more riders in the North Bend neighborhoods of Wilderness Rim and Riverbend.
This rerouting allows for a service that will travel from Mount Si Senior Center to stops in downtown North Bend and points near Cedar Village before picking up riders at designated stops in Wilderness Rim and Riverbend. This offers area residents an opportunity to access North Bend stores and services as well as connections to the rest of the Valley, Issaquah and beyond via King County Metro Transit’s fixed route services.
“We are still working out a few variables,” said SVT Director Amy Biggs, “but we are looking to start this service before the end of April. Like our current downtown loop route, this Cedar Falls loop route will operate for eight hours between 7 a.m. and 11 a.m. and between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. to get rides to those who need them most. If ridership needs demand it, the timing may be modified.”
One variation of this route is summertime service that connects riders from all over the Valley to recreation areas and trails around Rattlesnake Lake. “In the summer, everyday there is traffic congestion in the neighborhoods near Rattlesnake,” explains Biggs, “and that not only impacts the environment, but public safety as well. Our goal is to alleviate those issues by providing a safe and accessible public transportation alternative to this popular destination—and in the process, maybe we’ll inspire more people to visit here during the week.”
The bus for the restructured route is also expected to sport a bike rack.
SVT is still gathering data to help build support for the restructured service. Citizens can help by providing their input on a SVT survey atwww.surveymonkey.com/r/CederFalls. For the latest updates on Snoqualmie Valley Transportation, find them on Facebook.
