The COVID-19 pandemic triggered a shift to remote work for many of the region’s workers who previously commuted by transit. Since 2022, ridership has steadily recovered, and in 2024, reached 172 million boardings, or 75% of 2019 ridership. PSRC’s latest issue of Puget Sound Trends highlights the recovery and expansion of the regional transit system.
Ridership recovery is partially fueled by the expansion of the region’s high-capacity transit system. The expansion of the 1 Line, the introduction of the 2 Line, and new BRT lines in King County have produced a steady recovery in ridership since 2020. Recovery, however, has not been even across all transit modes. Commuter rail and vanpool programs lag at 42% and 45% of 2019 Ridership.
To learn more about our current transit system view the 2025 Current Transportation System Report. This report was produced as part of the update to the Regional Transportation Plan. Visit the Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) Engagement Hub to learn more about the update, and how you can help shape the future of transportation in the region.