The recent announcement of an $80 million federal grant will facilitate the expansion of King County Metro's RapidRide service, directly benefiting South King County communities including Auburn, Kent, and Renton. The RapidRide I Line, set to launch in 2027, will enhance the existing Route 160, connecting Auburn Station with downtown Renton while providing faster and more reliable service. With features like frequent buses, dedicated lanes, and transit signal priority, the new line aims to improve overall transit efficiency. Federal Transit Administration Region 10 Administrator Susan Fletcher pointed out that the I Line will serve some of the most transit-dependent areas, increasing access to jobs and opportunities for thousands of riders. U.

S. Senator Patty Murray expressed her excitement over the federal funding, underscoring its potential to deliver reliable public transportation for a growing region. King County Councilmember Dave Upthegrove called this funding a "game-changer" for South King County, highlighting its role in connecting residents to essential services. RapidRide I Line is part of a larger strategy to enhance high-capacity transit, with other lines like the J Line currently under construction. This expansion also aims to improve connections to Sounder commuter trains, further reducing reliance on private vehicles and alleviating traffic congestion.