About the Regional Transit Safety Task Force

The Regional Transit Safety Task Force is a coordinated response to growing safety concerns across King County’s transit system. Launched by a motion from the King County Council, the Task Force brings together partners from across the region to address safety challenges with urgency, transparency, and shared responsibility.

This is not a typical advisory group. It is an outcome-driven initiative focused on making tangible, measurable improvements to rider and operator safety. The Task Force is working to reduce operator assaults, speed up emergency response, strengthen cross-agency coordination, improve access to behavioral health services, and rebuild public confidence in transit. Every recommendation is shaped by frontline experience and designed for real-world implementation.

The process has unfolded in three phases. First, a regionwide kickoff gathered over 120 stakeholders to identify the most pressing challenges. Second, working groups co-developed solutions that reflect the needs of diverse communities and agencies. The final phase now underway is focused on turning those solutions into action, supported by clear implementation plans and a formal progress report to the King County Council in September 2025.

This is a regional effort to redefine what safety looks like on transit—not just through policy, but through visible, lasting change.

Aerial view of King County and Mt. Rainier

Regional Partners in Safety

The Regional Transit Safety Task Force brings together a broad and diverse group of stakeholders from across the region. Each plays a unique role in shaping a safer and more connected transit system, reflecting the collective effort it takes to make real change possible.

  • People riding inside light rail train.

    Transit Agencies

    Public agencies responsible for planning, funding, and overseeing transit systems, such as King County Metro and Sound Transit.

  • Train operator runs the train at the control panel.

    Transit Operators

    Bus drivers, rail operators, dispatchers, and frontline supervisors who manage daily transit operations.

  • Transit union members talk with each other at a meeting.

    Labor and Union Representatives

    Unions and labor leaders representing the interests and rights of transit workers across roles and systems.

  • Two fare enforcement officers wave to a King County Metro bus.

    Law Enforcement and Transit Security

    Local police departments, transit-specific law enforcement, sheriff’s offices, and contracted security personnel.

  • Emergency medical responders bring a patient in at the back of an ambulance.

    Emergency and Crisis Responders

    Professionals providing emergency response, crisis intervention, and public safety coordination related to transit.

  • A figure in needs grasps an outstretched helping hand.

    Health and Human Services Providers

    Organizations focused on behavioral health, substance use, housing support, and social services.

  • Classical columns and facade of a government building.

    Local and Regional Government Officials

    Elected leaders and agency staff from cities, counties, and regional bodies involved in transit, safety, and community services.

  • Figures writing on paper at an advocacy group meeting.

    Community-Based Organizations and Rider Advocates

    Nonprofits, advocacy groups, and grassroots organizations that represent riders and reflect the needs of diverse communities.

Join the effort

We’re building a safer transit system through shared action. Reach out to learn how your organization or team can get involved.

A row of seats on the light rail.