METRO Magazine Logo
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

Sound Transit ridership up 23% in 2016 systemwide

Ridership growth particularly picked up late in the year. Average weekday ridership during the fourth quarter increased 27.9% over the same period in 2015, with light rail weekday ridership growing 83.8%.

February 21, 2017
Sound Transit ridership up 23% in 2016 systemwide

WSP | Parsons Brinckerhoff

1 min to read


WSP | Parsons Brinckerhoff

Nearly forty-three million people rode Seattle’s Sound Transit trains and buses in 2016, a 23.1% system-wide increase over 2015.

Link light rail ridership surged 65.8% with the opening of new stations serving Capitol Hill, the University of Washington, and Angle Lake.

Ad Loading...

“It is encouraging to see such dramatic increases in ridership,” said Board Chair and Snohomish County Executive Dave Somers. “Every time someone chooses Link, Sounder or ST Express, they are helping our region’s economy and the environment. As we expand the regional rail network in the years ahead we will enable more and more people to climb aboard.”

Ridership growth particularly picked up late in the year. Average weekday ridership during the fourth quarter increased 27.9% over the same period in 2015, with light rail weekday ridership growing 83.8%.

To view the full report, click here.

More Management

An aerial image of SMU/Mockingbird Station with text reading "Transit-Oriented Development. Your Questions, Explained."
Managementby Elora HaynesAugust 1, 2026

What Transit-Oriented Development Means for the Future of Public Transportation

Once viewed primarily as transit operators, agencies are now leveraging land, partnerships, and long-term planning to boost ridership, expand housing, and strengthen communities.

Read More →
A graphic with an image of railroad track in the background and text reading: "$22 Million for Transit Innovation, Updates to High-Speed Rail Rules."
Managementby Staff and News ReportsJuly 31, 2026

USDOT Announces $22 Million for Transit Innovation, Updates High-Speed Rail Rules

New federal transit funding will support safety, accessibility, and technology projects as updated rail regulations establish new noise standards for high-speed trains.

Read More →
A blue graphic with text reading "TCC Unveils Case Studies Ahead of Federal Funding Deadline."
Managementby Elora HaynesJuly 29, 2026

Transportation Construction Coalition Unveils Infrastructure Case Studies Ahead of Federal Funding Deadline

The coalition noted the next surface transportation bill should provide sustained investment in highways and public transit to strengthen freight movement, improve safety, and support economic growth.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Fred Ferguson, President/CEO of the American Bus Association
Managementby Alex RomanJuly 29, 2026

People Movement: American Bus Association Extends Ferguson and More

METRO’s People Movement highlights the latest leadership changes, promotions, and personnel news across the public transit, motorcoach, and people mobility sectors.

Read More →
Driving Change: Award Winners Redefine Industry Standards
Technologyby Staff and News ReportsJuly 29, 2026

METRO Magazine Announces 2026 Innovative Solutions Awards Winners

Projects Recognized for Advancing Mobility Through Technology, Accessibility, Workforce Innovation, and Operational Excellence

Read More →
 An MBTA bus
Managementby StaffJuly 28, 2026

MBTA Rolls Out Pilot Programs to Cut Costs, Simplify Travel

Three new fare pilots — including unlimited two-hour transfers, reduced express bus fares, and free transit for eligible seniors — will launch this fall as Massachusetts extends popular commuter rail discounts through November.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
A public transit bus at a pedestrian crosswalk with text reading "Federal Transit Administration Makes $610 Million Available for Bus Projects."
Managementby StaffJuly 27, 2026

FTA Opens $610 Million Funding Opportunity for Bus Infrastructure Projects

The latest Notice of Funding Opportunity provides transit agencies with funding for bus facilities, fleet modernization, and low- and no-emission vehicles, with applications due September 21.

Read More →
A photo of an Amtrak train with a logo
Managementby Alex RomanJuly 24, 2026

Biz Briefs: STV teams with Amtrak, Motorcoach Operators Boost Fleet and Land Contracts, and More

From manufacturers and suppliers to transit agencies and motorcoach operators, these updates offer a snapshot of the projects, partnerships and business moves driving the industry forward.

Read More →
MBTA rail platform with people walking by.
Managementby Elora HaynesJuly 23, 2026

Massachusetts Approves $530M to Strengthen MBTA Operations, Infrastructure

The funding package targets operating stability, capital improvements, and fare affordability, offering a model for agencies navigating long-term funding challenges.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
LA Metro at State of the Agency event.
Managementby Alex RomanJuly 23, 2026

LA Metro Marks Banner Year, Sets Ambitious Goals for New Fiscal Year

Incoming LA Metro Board Chair and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass joined outgoing Board Chair Fernando Dutra and LA Metro CEO Stephanie Wiggins to review accomplishments from fiscal year 2026, which included the opening of new rail extensions, advancement of major transit projects, expanded safety programs, and new rider amenities.

Read More →