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.

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.

  • Transit Agencies

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

  • Transit Operators

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

  • Labor and Union Representatives

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

  • Law Enforcement and Transit Security

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

  • Emergency and Crisis Responders

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

  • Health and Human Services Providers

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

  • Local and Regional Government Officials

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

  • 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.