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Join the Choose Your Way Bellevue End of Summer Travel Challenge from August 1-31 to earn BIG rewards! 

As Bellevue continues its growth as a major economic and residential hub, its transportation story is more than a tale of transit—it’s a roadmap for sustainable, inclusive urban growth. In partnership with regional agencies like King County Metro and Sound Transit, the city transforms how people move to serve the environment better, expand opportunity, and boost its appeal as a destination for talent and investment. This evolution, from streetcars and buses to high-capacity light rail and trail networks, is central to achieving Bellevue’s climate goals, fostering equitable access, and shaping a future where transit is not just a service, but a foundation for livability. What follows is a look at that journey—past, present, and future—through the lens of purpose-driven mobility. 

Metro takes over 

In 1973, King County Metro Transit was formed to consolidate regional bus services—including Bellevue’s—and ushered in initiatives like articulated buses, suburban park‑and‑ride lots, and the Downtown Seattle Bus Tunnel. In 1985, the Bellevue Transit Center opened , evolving significantly through renovations and service expansions over the decades. 

Crafting the regional vision 

Sound Transit was born in 1996 through the "Sound Move" plan, backed by local voters. This visionary strategy introduced ST Express buses (1999) and commuter rail, then light rail in Tacoma in 2003. Successive ballot measures in 2008 and 2016 secured funding for projects, including the pivotal East Link Extension, which will eventually connect Seattle to Redmond. The Seattle to Bellevue connection is planned for in early 2026 (see details below) 

East Link Lights Up the Eastside 

Breaking new ground 

By April 2024, Bellevue welcomed its first taste of light rail, opening an eight‑station segment between South Bellevue and Redmond Technology as part of the 2 Line (East Link). This 6.5‑mile stretch, part of a larger 14‑mile corridor from Seattle to Redmond, offers trains every 10 minutes from morning through evening. 

Impacting growth & equity 

The light rail opening on the east side has already spurred rapid office, business, and multi-family residential development. Downtown Bellevue has seen its most intense redevelopment in decades, and the Bel‑Red corridor is being reshaped through mixed‑use, transit‑oriented neighborhoods like the Spring District. City planners and officials hope this mutually beneficial expansion of light rail and dense urban development translates into improved access to jobs, affordable housing, and greener, more pedestrian‑friendly urban spaces. 

Onwards & Upwards: The Future of Transit in Bellevue 

Full East Link 2 Line & new connections 

Sound Transit’s light rail network will expand further in early 2026, when service will extend across Lake Washington via I‑90 into Mercer Island, Judkins Park, and Seattle. This milestone will fully integrate Bellevue with Seattle’s transit sphere. 

Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) enhancements 

The RapidRide B Line has already strengthened Eastside bus service since 2011, running between Bellevue Transit Center and Redmond Downtown Station . Looking ahead, Bellevue Transit Center is set to become a hub for Sound Transit’s Stride BRT lines—S1 to Renton/Burien (2028) and S2 to Bothell/Lynnwood (2029), bolstering regional connectivity. 

Trail & bike network expansion 

Bellevue’s commitment to multimodal transit shows in the development of Eastrail, which was converted from the former Eastside Rail Corridor to a multi-use trail. Over recent years, segments have linked Kirkland, Bellevue, and surrounding areas. This corridor not only supports cycling and walking but also reinforces the city’s goal for a car-light future that prioritizes sustainable transportation modes.

Why this matters for Bellevue 

1. Climate-friendly urban living: Light rail, BRT, and trails reduce car usage and greenhouse gas emissions, vital for meeting Bellevue’s climate goals, as well as air and water pollution.
2. Inclusive growth: Transit-rich neighborhoods offer the freedom of mobility and improved access to jobs, housing, and services, boosting economic opportunities for all residents, including those who are transit-dependent.
3. Competitive edge: Seamless transit and mobility make Bellevue more attractive to businesses, talent, and investors, connecting it tightly with Seattle, Redmond, and beyond. This is especially the case with younger generation workers who prefer a transit-supported lifestyle and urban living over car-dependency and sprawl.
4. Public safety: A robust transit system contributing to fewer cars on the road and more pedestrian activity aligns with the City of Bellevue’s Vision Zero Initiative (and corresponding Vision Zero Strategic Plan), which aims to eliminate traffic deaths and serious injuries on city streets by 2030.
5. Public health: Transit is good for public health as it provides access to physical and mental health services, reduces isolation, particularly for seniors and people with disabilities, and provides a more physically active and less stressful way for Bellevue travelers to get around.  

Bellevue's transit narrative reflects a city in transformation, from early streetcars and park-and-ride buses to a transit-first future, where light rail and rapid buses reshape how we live, work, and play. As East Link matures, bus networks improve, and trails flourish, Bellevue continues to evolve, choosing sustainability, accessibility, and connectivity for all travelers, and livability for future generations. 

Sources: 

metro.kingcounty.gov 

https://www.soundtransit.org/get-to-know-us/our-history 

https://www.bellevuedowntown.com/post/70-years-young-bellevue-s-7-decades-as-an-incorporated-city-reflected-in-changing-downtown-landscape 

https://www.axios.com/newsletters/axios-seattle-d5b19d50-0332-11ef-aa9b-7b7d0563dfe6?utm_ 

https://www.soundtransit.org/system-expansion/east-link-extension 

If you want to reduce your carbon footprint, save money, and get healthier all at once, bike commuting is a fantastic choice. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or new to the idea, we’ve got you covered with this beginner’s guide to bike commuting. 

1. Why commute by bike? 

Bike commuting is more than just a trend—it’s an opportunity to improve your health, reduce your environmental impact, and save money. According to the Cascade Bicycle Club, commuting by bike instead of car can reduce your carbon emissions by 100 pounds per year. Additionally, cycling boosts cardiovascular health and reduces stress. Studies show that cyclists experience a 50% reduction in stress compared to drivers. 

2. Bikeways in Bellevue 

Bellevue is home to a wide variety of bike lanes and trails. Here are some routes to consider: 

• Neighborhood streets: These calmer, residential streets are perfect for those new to cycling.
• EastRail: A multi-use, car-free trail that offers a scenic ride from Bellevue to Kirkland and beyond.
• Commuter Routes: Bellevue’s marked bike lanes connect major areas like downtown and the 520 Corridor. 

3. Bike commuting essentials 

Before hitting the road, make sure you have the right gear: 

• Helmet: A must for safety.
• Lights: Front and rear lights are crucial for visibility. Washington law requires a white front light and, at minimum, a reflector for the bike's back.
• Reflective Gear: Wear bright clothing and reflectors.
• Bike Lock: Secure your bike when you're not riding.
• Water Bottle: Stay hydrated during longer rides.
• Rain Gear: Be prepared for the unpredictable Bellevue weather. 

4. Safety first 

Follow bike laws, use hand signals, ride predictably, and stay aware of your surroundings.  You can read more about safety tips on our past blog.

Source: 

National Library of Medicine, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10546027/

All month long, transit agencies, sustainable transportation advocacy organizations, and riders across Washington State are coming together to celebrate Ride Transit Month! Whether you’re a seasoned commuter or new to public transportation, June is the perfect time to hop aboard and enjoy the ride on your way to fun spring and summer activities. From buses and light rail to ferries, vanpools, water taxis, and streetcars, every mode of transit is part of the fun. 

Ride Transit Month is more than just getting from point A to B, it's about saving money, cutting emissions, reducing traffic, increasing physical activity, and rewarding you for making smart travel choices. Across the state, you'll find events, reward-based travel challenges, and plenty of encouragement to support your transit journey.  

Here in Bellevue, Choose Your Way Bellevue is joining the celebration with the Ride Transit Month Travel Challenge! This is your chance to earn awesome rewards just for riding and logging your transit trips in June. 

🚍 How to Participate: 

• Ride Transit at Least 8 Days in June 
  Log your trips and you’ll be entered to win one of two prize packs including a $25 coffee gift card, a $25 ORCA card, and your choice of a $50 REI or Hulu gift card.
• Share Your Transit Story! 
  Ride 12 or more days and submit a 250-word story about your transit experience. One lucky storyteller will win a pair of Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones and a $25 coffee gift card. 

Tell us what you love about riding transit—whether it’s meeting friendly faces, stress-free commuting, doing your part to cut emissions, or simply taking in the views. Your story might just inspire someone else to make the switch! 

🌎 Ready to Join? 

🚀 Sign Up for the Challenge 
📍 Log Your Trips Here 

TransportationChoices has a fun transit bingo game to play while you are out there logging your trips!

While biking is a fun and healthy way to get around Bellevue, staying safe is important. Here are some bike safety tips to keep in mind, especially during Bike Everywhere Month:

Always wear a helmet 
Your helmet is your most important piece of safety gear. No matter how short the ride, a helmet can help protect you from injury  and is mandatory in Bellevue. Make sure your helmet fits snugly and adjust the straps for a secure fit.

Check your bike before riding 
A quick bike check before you ride ensures your bike is in safe working condition. Check the brakes, tires, chain, and lights to avoid any breakdowns or safety hazards on the road.

Use proper hand signals 
Signal your turns to help communicate with drivers and other cyclists. Use your left arm to signal a left turn, right arm for a right turn, and lower your left arm to signal a stop. The City of Bellevue has a bike etiquette flyer to learn more.

Images and more information on hand signals can be found at Bike Tips.

Be visible 
It’s important to stand out, especially when riding early in the morning or at dusk. Wear bright-colored clothing and always have front and rear lights on your bike. If possible, add reflective tape to your helmet and bike for extra visibility.

Ride in the right lane 
When riding on the road, always ride in the same direction as traffic and stay in bike lanes or bike paths where possible. Follow traffic signals just as a car would, and don’t forget to stop at red lights.

Stay aware of your surroundings 
Always be alert to traffic, pedestrians, and other cyclists. Keep your head up, use your mirrors if needed, and always be ready to react quickly to avoid potential hazards.

Weather and terrain awareness 
The weather in Bellevue can be unpredictable, so dress accordingly. Be aware of rainy conditions—wet roads can be slippery, and you might need to adjust your braking. Additionally, hilly terrain may require extra caution when going downhill.

Share the road 
Remember, bikes have the same rights and responsibilities as other vehicles. Be respectful of pedestrians, other cyclists, and drivers. If you're riding on shared paths, announce your presence by saying, “On your left!” when passing someone.

As you log your bike rides this month, remember that each trip brings you closer to earning rewards for being eco-friendly and health-conscious.  

Celebrate Bike Everywhere Month with Choose Your Way Bellevue

Bike Everywhere Month, presented by Microsoft, Lime, and Amazon, is a time to support, encourage, and celebrate all things bicycling. Whether commuting to work, running errands, exercising, or simply enjoying the fresh air, May is the perfect time to embrace the freedom and joy of cycling. Originating as “Bike to Work Day” in the 1950s and later evolving into Bike Month, this annual event is championed by the League of American Bicyclists and celebrated nationwide, including local organizations such as Cascade Bicycle Club. Washington is known for its strong biking culture and leading the way in celebrating pedal power, and Bellevue is no exception!

With a mix of events and activities, Bike Everywhere Month offers plenty of opportunities to connect with fellow cyclists, improve your riding skills, and explore new routes. The best way to participate is simple: get on a bike! Whether you’re riding to work, the grocery store, or just around town for fun or exercise, every ride counts.

To help you make the most of this month, Choose Your Way Bellevue has put together a fantastic lineup of events. Check them out below and join in the celebration!

Kickoff Meet and Greet Event!

Date & Time: Saturday, May 3, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Location: Bellevue Downtown Park, 10200 NE 1st St.

Start Bike Everywhere Month with a bang! Meet fellow cycling enthusiasts, enjoy free pizza (while supplies last), and learn about upcoming travel challenges where you can win rewards worth over $500! Choose Your Way Bellevue will be on-site with awesome swag and expert advice on sustainable travel. Don’t miss this fun-filled kickoff event—register now!

👉 Register Here

FREE Classes with Cascade Bicycle Club!

Date: Saturday, May 10

Location: Bellevue Library, 1111 110th Ave NE

Enhance your biking skills with two free classes taught by experts:

Intro to Commuting

Time: 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Learn the essentials of bike commuting, from route planning to safety tips.

Maintenance for Every Commuter

Time: 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Gain hands-on knowledge to keep your bike in top condition.

These valuable sessions are free, thanks to Choose Your Way Bellevue and King County Library. Spots are limited—sign up today!

👉 Register Here

Bike Everywhere Day!

Date & Time: Wednesday, May 14, 6 a.m. - 10 a.m.

Locations:

SR 520 Bridge at Evergreen Point, 520 Trail/Evergreen Point Road, Medina

I-90 East Enatai Station, Mountains to Sound Trail Entrance at SE 34th St. And 108th Ave.

Pedal your way to work and stop by our celebration stations for refreshments, camaraderie, and exclusive Choose Your Way Bellevue swag. Whether you’re crossing the SR 520 or I-90 Bridge, these stations are the perfect pit stops to fuel up and connect with fellow riders.

Bike Appreciation Day!

Date & Time: Wednesday, May 28, 7 a.m. - 9 a.m.

Location: Downtown Bellevue 2 Line Station, 594 110th Ave NE

Cycling has its perks! Ride your bike to our Bike Appreciation Day station and receive a $10 coffee gift card (while supplies last) as a thank-you for choosing a sustainable commute.

Embrace the spirit of Bike Everywhere Month by participating in these exciting events, improving your cycling skills, and 

connecting with Bellevue’s vibrant biking community. See you out there! 

It is always an exciting time to see what new service changes are available from King County Metro! Check out the latest changes for Bellevue and Redmond routes, including revisions to serve two new 2 Line light rail stations opening at Downtown Redmond and Marymoor Village!  

King County Metro:

Route 224: Route will be revised to serve Downtown Redmond Station. DART Route 224 - King County, Washington

Route 226: Morning trip times will be adjusted to better align with Interlake and Bellevue High School bell times. Route 226 - King County, Washington

Route 240: Morning trip times will be adjusted to better align with Newport High School bell times. Route 240 - King County, Washington

Route 241: Morning trip times will be adjusted to better align with Interlake and Bellevue High School bell times. Route 241 - King County, Washington

Route 250: This route will be revised to serve Downtown Redmond Station. Route 250 - King County, Washington

Route 269: This route will be revised to serve Marymoor Village Station. Route 269 - King County, Washington

Route 930: This route will be revised to serve Downtown Redmond Station and run hourly on weekends between 6 am and 5 pm. DART Route 930 - King County, Washington

RapidRide B Line: This route will be revised to serve Downtown Redmond Station. At that time, this route will also be revised to remain on 156th Ave NE between NE 24th St and NE 31st St, no longer serving Overlake Village Station. The route will continue to serve Redmond Technology Station. RapidRide B Line - King County, Washington

Sound Transit: 

The 2 Line will be extended to serve both Marymoor Village and Downtown Redmond stations.

532 Two trips added. Schedule adjustments to improve reliability.

535 Schedule adjustments to improve reliability.

Check out the upcoming holiday hours schedule:

Metro will operate a Sunday schedule on:

Memorial Day 
Monday, May 26, 2025

Independence Day 
Friday, July 4, 2025

Please check your timetable or Metro’s Holiday Service page for details.

Sound Transit bus routes 522, 541, 542, 544, 545, 550, 554, 555, 556 and 566 will operate a Sunday schedule on:

Memorial Day 
Monday, May 26, 2025

Independence Day 
Friday, July 4, 2025

The 1 Line and 2 Line light rail will also operate a Sunday schedule for Memorial Day and Independence Day.

Sounder commuter rail will not operate on Memorial Day and Independence Day.

Springtime in Bellevue and the Puget Sound area offers a vibrant display of floral beauty, with destinations like the Bellevue Botanical Garden, the University of Washington's cherry blossoms, and the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival showcasing nature's splendor. Even better, these breathtaking locations can be enjoyed without the stress of driving, parking, and paying for gas!

Bellevue Botanical Garden

📍 12001 Main St, Bellevue, WA 98005

Nestled in the heart of Bellevue, the Bellevue Botanical Garden is a tranquil oasis where nature and artistry come together in breathtaking harmony. As you wander through its 53 acres of vibrant landscapes, you’ll encounter a diverse collection of gardens, from the serene Japanese-inspired Yao Garden to the colorful Perennial Border bursting with seasonal blooms. In spring, rhododendrons, azaleas, and cherry blossoms put on a dazzling display, making every turn a picture-perfect moment. The Suspension Bridge offers a thrilling walk over a lush ravine, adding a touch of adventure to your visit. Whether you're a plant enthusiast, a photographer, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, this hidden gem is a must-see!

How to get there: 

Check your travel planning app to find the best bus route to take, or try out the BellHop!

University of Washington Cherry Blossoms (The Quad)

📍 University of Washington Quad, Seattle, WA 98195

For a truly magical springtime experience, there’s nothing quite like the cherry blossoms at the University of Washington's Quad. Each year, around late March to early April, the 30 Yoshino cherry trees burst into full bloom, transforming the Quad into a dreamy sea of soft pink petals. As you stroll beneath the branches, delicate blossoms drift down like a natural snowfall, creating a serene and unforgettable atmosphere. It’s an iconic Seattle tradition, perfect for photographers, students, and visitors alike. Arrive early to beat the crowds and soak in the beauty of these 80-year-old trees, a gift that continues to captivate generation after generation.

How to get there: 

Check your travel planning app for the best bus route to take from Bellevue.

Skagit Valley Tulip Festival

📍 Main Office: 311 W Kincaid St, Mount Vernon, WA 98273 (Various tulip field locations)

Step into a storybook landscape at the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, where millions of tulips paint the fields in vibrant shades of red, yellow, pink, and purple as far as the eye can see. Held every April, this world-famous festival transforms Mount Vernon and La Conner into a blooming paradise, drawing flower lovers from all over. You’ll have the chance to walk among endless rows of tulips, visit spectacular display gardens at Roozengaarde and Tulip Town, and capture stunning photos straight out of a postcard. With local markets, food vendors, and charming nearby towns, this festival is the ultimate springtime escape!

How to get there: 

By guided tour bus: Several companies offer guided tours from the Seattle area to the festival. Hop on a King County Metro bus to one of these tour companies: 

• Shutter Tours, which offers comfortable bus tours that include visits to tulip fields and a stop in the charming town of La Conner. Seattle hotel pickups are available. For more details, call (425) 516-8838.
• Skagit Guided Adventures: Provides tours with insights into the tulip industry and festival history, led by knowledgeable local guides. Tours run daily at 9:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Contact them at (360) 474-7479. 

By public transit: 

Step 1: Take Sound Transit Express Route 550 from Bellevue Transit Center to Seattle's International District/Chinatown Station. Step 2: Walk to King Street Station and board the Amtrak Cascades train to Mount Vernon. Note: This service requires advance reservations. Step 3: From Mount Vernon Station, Skagit Transit Route 615 operates along McLean Road from Monday to Saturday. Disembark at Beaver Marsh Road, the closest stop to the tulip fields and gardens. Be prepared for a walk (.5-1.5 miles) to reach the fields from the bus stop.

Leave the car at home and help the environment, your pocketbook, and your mood by using sustainable transportation modes such as the bus, train, walking or biking!  

Don’t forget to log your sustainable trips on our website at ChooseYourWayBellevue.org to earn rewards including $50 gift cards! 

Say goodbye to scraping ice off your windshield and wasting gas while waiting for your car to warm up. With these public transit travel tips, you’ll stay ahead of the game and out of the cold this winter. 

1. Minimize your time outside  

Track your bus or light rail departure to reduce waiting in the cold. Apps like OneBusAway and Google Maps can show real-time bus locations and arrival times, so you can time your arrival at the station perfectly. 

2. Accessorize smartly – small details can bring big comfort

A hat, scarf, and gloves can make all the difference, especially on windy, bone-chilling days. Bonus tip: over-ear headphones double as earmuffs in a pinch, keeping your ears cozy while you enjoy your favorite playlist or podcast. 

3. Layers, layers, layers

Stepping into a toasty bus on a chilly night is wonderful—until you start overheating. Dress in layers you can easily remove to stay comfortable as you transition from cold outdoors to warm transit interiors. 

4. Stay visible

With early sunsets and dark commutes, visibility is key. Avoid wearing all-black outer layers and opt for bright colors or reflective gear instead. A flashlight or headlamp is also a smart addition for poorly lit areas. 

5. Don’t forget your rainy day activities!

Make your transit time enjoyable! Bring a good book, work on a knitting or crocheting project, or indulge in your favorite mobile game. If you’re like me, you might just put on some headphones, gaze out the window, and pretend you’re in a cinematic music video—highly recommended. 

Rainy days, early sunsets, and poor visibility come with the season, but with a little planning and a few hacks, public transit can be your ultimate ally. Enjoy a stress-free, eco-friendly commute this winter in Bellevue!