As you prepare for the upcoming season, the last thing Seahawks fans should worry about is getting to Qwest Field on time. To help you avoid traffic delays and conserve energy, we want to make you aware of the following projects and changes to services.
New Federal Rules Alter Transportation Options for Seahawks Fans
Seahawks fans that normally use King County Metro Transit's Seahawks game day bus service from park-and-ride lots will need to secure alternate transportation to the preseason games, the team announced today.
In April, the Federal Transit Administration ruled that if any private bus operators are interested, Metro is precluded from operating the bus service and the Seahawks must negotiate with those charter bus companies.
The Seahawks received one bid which included an increase in passenger fares by $14. In addition, the bid did not include approvals to use roadways, park-and-ride lots and staging areas that are necessary to operate the service safely and effectively.
For those impacted fans, the Seahawks recommend using regular Metro service, Sound Transit ST Express buses and the Sounder Train. ST Express buses offer transportation from areas throughout Pierce, King and Snohomish counties with service every 30 minutes and stops within 3 blocks of Qwest Field.
I-405 Widening project in Bellevue
As many of you know, major construction on I-405 in Bellevue is currently taking place. This construction will significantly affect traffic for the Saturday, August 16th Seahawks game versus Chicago when crews will close all lanes of southbound I-405 between SE 8th Street and I-90. Those driving on I-5 and SR 520 should also plan for delays. Fans are strongly urged to use available Metro and Sound Transit bus service, carpool and use alternative routes to Qwest Field. .
Spokane Street Closure
Later this month, construction will begin on the Spokane Street Viaduct. This project will close Spokane Street for 2 years between 1st Avenue and 4th Avenue as well as the 4th Avenue ramp.
Sounder Trains
Sounder Trains will operate for every Sunday and Sunday night game during the 2008 regular season. Sound Transit's ST Express buses are a great alternative when trains are not in service during the preseason (8/16 and 8/29) football games.
We look forward to seeing you at Qwest Field for Saturday's game versus Chicago.
