King County Metro has temporarily closed bus stops at 12th Avenue South and South Jackson Street starting Monday, citing ongoing safety concerns in the area.
According to Metro, the decision was made to ensure the safety of riders, transit operators, and employees as the area continues to experience frequent illegal activity.
Metro didn’t specify previous incidents in the area, although five people were stabbed Nov. 10, and five other stabbings in early November.
The stops will remain closed until further notice.
Impacted routes include 1, 7, 9, 14, 36, 60, and 106. Riders can use nearby stops along South Jackson Street, Rainier Avenue South, and other alternative locations.
Metro has notified riders through Transit Alerts and posted notices at the affected stops.
Alternate stops for each route have been provided:
- Routes 1, 7, 14, and 106: Nearby stops include South Jackson Street at 8th Avenue South (eastbound), and South Jackson Street at Boren Avenue South (westbound). Additional stops for Route 7 and Route 106 are available at Rainier Avenue South and South King Street.
- Route 36: Riders can use stops at South Jackson Street at 8th Avenue South or 12th Avenue South and South Weller Street.
- Route 60: Alternate stops include 12th Avenue South and South Weller Street and East Yesler Way at Broadway.
- Route 9: Northbound riders can board at Boren Avenue at East Yesler Way or Rainier Avenue South and South Dearborn Street. Southbound stops include Rainier Avenue South at South King Street.
The Seattle Streetcar First Hill route will continue to operate at its stop at 12th Avenue South and South Jackson Street.
According to King County Metro, Metro Transit Police and the Seattle Police Department are working together to address safety issues in the area.
Metro stated that these closures are temporary and updates will be provided as safety concerns are mitigated.