Figure 4 Change in Population at or Below 200 Percent of Federal Poverty Level, from 2012 to 2017

Figure 4 Change in Population at or Below 200 Percent of Federal Poverty Level, from 2012 to 2017

Source: US Census ACS 5-Year Estimates, 2008-2012 & 2013-2017; BERK, 2019.

Race also factors into displacement trends. Data show that between 2007 and 2017, many Black people were displaced from urban centers to less expensive areas like south King County. 33 People who are displaced often must travel farther to work, school, or services. Those with low-wage jobs often work midday or late evening shifts. This population shift creates challenges for Metro. Fixed-route transit is easiest and most efficient to provide in areas with high population and job density and mostly traditional 9-to-5 office schedules. It is less productive in communities that lack high population density and where residents travel farther throughout the day. As Metro works toward its vision of an equitable mobility system, it will employ strategies that encourage dense, affordable housing near transit and minimize displacement. As areas of greatest need change, Metro must also develop new mobility options tailored to the needs of displaced communities.

33 King County Metro Mobility Framework Report, Appendix A, Travel Trends. 2019. Available at: https://www.kingcounty.gov/~/media/depts/transportation/metro/about/planning/mobilityframework/metro-mobility-framework-report.pdf