We know that recent updates to E Union St between 12th Ave and 11th Ave have raised questions and concerns. Any adjustment to a bus lane deserves clarity, and we want to share what’s happening and why.
This project affects about ¼ of a block on E Union St west of 12th Ave. Since construction of the G-Line concluded in 2024, this 50-foot portion of street has not been used for its intended purpose of serving Metro Route 2. We’ve been moving forward with plans to support the return of Metro Route 2 and at the same time, explore additional options to address concerns raised by several local businesses.
As part of our efforts to support Metro Route 2’s use of this block, we are adding a pedestrian signal. It is standard practice to review and adjust how things are working after a major project, and one consideration is whether access to this short segment of E Union St could be expanded to accommodate specific needs of local businesses. Unfortunately, this revised access was included in the current work plan before bus service resumed and before we had the chance to review outcomes that would help guide a decision.
When construction began to modify the E Union St bus lane, SDOT, Councilmembers Joy Hollingsworth and Alexis Mercedes Rinck, and the Mayor’s Office heard concerns from bus riders and those involved in planning the RapidRide G Project. We hear those concerns – and agree with feedback about the quick pace of work and the lack of communication about why the red bus lane markings were being removed and access for businesses was being added. That’s why we are updating our approach to meet the changes requested by Metro to support Route 2, while continuing conversations and evaluations with all stakeholders before advancing changes to bus lane uses. Once restored, Route 2 buses will run every 15 minutes at peak, making about four stops at this location per hour.
What to expect; the changes:
- Maintain red bus lane markings
- Support Metro bringing Route 2 to this location
- Make easier transfers from Route 2 to RapidRide G buses
- Add a pedestrian signal at 12th Ave and E Union St
- Shift the eastbound bike crossing to 11th Ave for a more intuitive bike connection
Metro’s update on Route 2
With the addition of a pedestrian signal at the crosswalk, Metro plans to shift westbound Route 2 to East Union Street and this more direct, reliable pathway. Westbound Route 2 is the only bus route that operates on this section of roadway, with one bus stop and service about every 15 minutes.
Once SDOT’s work is completed, including road paint and pedestrian signal work, Metro’s team will take steps to prepare to transition the westbound route to travel from Madison to Union as soon as possible this fall. A timeframe for that transition is in development.
Metro shared: “We’re grateful Seattle is making these updates and eager to return Route 2 service to this more direct and reliable pathway on East Union Street.”
Construction Update
Bike lane changes have already occurred, this week we expect to add new pedestrian signals, and as soon as the following week—we’ll add striping and signs. Pedestrian signals will be turned on when King County Metro returns Route 2 to original operations as soon as possible this fall.