Metro Connects
Fleet, Infrastructure, and Workforce
Smart design As Metro purchases new fleet vehicles, it will continually improve their design with the ease, comfort, and safety of customers and operators in mind. Metro will ensure vehicles support equitable access for everyone, regardless of their ability. Metro will continue to emphasize features that make bus boarding fast and easy and keep maintenance costs down. Metro will also proactively include systems that support developing technology. Bus real-time intelligence systems provide immediate access to useful information about operations and conditions, and could support features such as:
Real-time information for customers about the availability of seats, bike storage space, and space for wheelchairs or other mobility aids
Telematics—vehicle systems that use telecommunications to send, receive, and store computer-based engine data—for proactive identification of mechanical problems
Video systems that use license plate readers and object recognition to identify vehicles parked in bus-only lanes
Onboard environmental monitors for weather conditions and air pollution
Traffic control that goes beyond transit signal priority, such as remote activation of pedestrian crossing buttons at intersections to encourage patrons not to jaywalk to catch the bus
Secondary uses of a vehicle, such as an emergency communications hub or power generator
Safety features including audible signals to pedestrians
For more information See Technical Report E. Capital Costing Methodology for more detail on the topics in the Supporting Infrastructure section.
What will it take?
Procure state-of-the-art zero-emissions vehicles and supporting infrastructure to support expanded service, replace vehicles as needed, and meet customer needs.
Use fleet design criteria that focus on customer and driver needs.
Optimize and moderately expand the trolley network by: −
Filling gaps in the network to allow flexibility
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Working with partners to potentially extend wire to new streets so routes could be converted to trolley bus service
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Keep the trolley system infrastructure in a state of good repair through regular maintenance and planned replacement cycles.
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Increasing use of trolleys on weekends.
King County Metro Long Range Plan
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