Strategic Plan
Chapter 2: A Pathway to the Future
Goal: Be Responsible Stewards of Financial Resources and Invest in Line with Values and Goals Budget and invest in ways that advance mobility, safety, equity, and sustainability. Be good stewards of taxpayer funds and use resources wisely. Exercise sound financial management and ensure Metro’s long-term financial sustainability. Track and measure outcomes. Objective: Budget and invest in ways that deliver Metro Connects safely, equitably, and sustainably. Metro’s 2015 Strategic Plan included a strategy to create a long-range transit service and capital plan in collaboration with regional transportation planning. In 2017, the King County Council adopted Metro Connects, developed in partnership with jurisdictions, elected officials, the public, and others. Metro has begun investing in services, projects, and programs envisioned in the long-range plan and will continue doing so. Metro will need additional resources to fully develop the Metro Connects networks. Intended outcome: Metro can implement Metro Connects, meeting regional transportation needs and advancing safety, equity, and sustainability. Strategy: Seek additional funding sources that are equitable and financially sustainable. Metro needs more, and more stable, financial resources to continue current operations, meet growing customer demand, and achieve the region’s vision— including the interim and 2050 Metro Connects service networks. The COVID-19 pandemic has increased uncertainty in Metro’s financial outlook and the need for more resources. Metro must establish stable revenue sources that enable system growth and keep pace with regional growth and employment. Fare revenue, which covers a significant portion of Metro’s operating expenses, will continue to be critical to Metro’s ability to expand and improve bus service throughout King County. Funding that reduces Metro’s reliance on sales tax revenue, a regressive and volatile source, is crucial. Actions Metro will take include:
Work with regional leaders to consider potential funding sources and develop a plan for funding Metro Connects.
Work with the King County Executive to pursue new revenue sources through state legislation, including sources that are currently authorized and those requiring new legislation.
Advocate for more progressive tax sources to build the mobility network more equitably.
King County Metro
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