For former public transportation users in the Valley, a new option from King County Metro could get you back on the bus.

The new Route 628, starting Monday, Feb. 16, offers Snoqualmie Valley riders a quicker connection to the Issaquah Highlands than the 208 bus, with service every two hours.

Route 208 was changed and two bus routes connecting North Bend to Issaquah and Seattle were eliminated last year for budget reasons. The new 628, provided by a contract with Hopelink, will  offer trips up to every 30 minutes during peak times each weekday between the park-and-rides in North Bend and Issaquah Highlands. Hours of operation are 5 to 8 a.m. and 5 to 9 p.m.

The new shuttle service is part of Metro’s alternative services program, which also funded the Snoqualmie Valley Transportation Valley Shuttle program between North Bend and Duvall.

“This is one of several alternative service projects that will be undertaken in the next two years,” said Metro spokeswoman Rochelle Ogershock. “There is $12 million set aside to support these programs.”