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Seattle launches new summer bus service linking Ballard and Golden Gardens Park

Golden Gardens in Ballard
Golden Gardens Seattle Golden Gardens in Ballard. (Source: Seattle Department of Parks and Recreation)

A new bus service will connect Ballard to Golden Gardens Park this summer!

King County Metro and the City of Seattle are launching Golden Gardens Direct, a pilot program that hopes to improve park access while reducing traffic congestion and parking demand during the peak summer season.

Sam Smith, a district planner for King County Metro, says Golden Gardens is aways packed during the peak season.

" It is usually chaotic and crowded, and people are struggling to find a parking spot," Smith said. “I usually ride my bicycle here, and even that is hard to find, hard to a place to park for my bike.

Starting Saturday, June 27, buses will run every 30 minutes from Market Street in Ballard directly to Golden Gardens Park.

“This pilot is more than just welcoming people to golden gardens; it’s about making sure everyone can enjoy our parks whether or not they drive,” said Michelle Allison, Metro General Manager.

The service will run daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. through Aug. 30.

The Golden Gardens Direct costs $3 per ride—the same as a regular Metro bus—and is free for kids 18 and under.

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