A new seasonal bus service will provide a direct connection between Ballard and Golden Gardens Park beginning later this month.
King County Metro and the City of Seattle are launching the Golden Gardens Direct, a pilot route that will operate daily from June 27 through Aug. 30. The shuttle will run every 30 minutes between Ballard’s Market Street corridor and Golden Gardens Park from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
According to King County Metro, adult fares will cost $3, while youth ages 18 and younger ride free. Reduced fares of $1 are available for ORCA LIFT riders and Regional Reduced Fare Permit holders. Riders can pay with an ORCA card, the Transit GO Ticket app or cash.
Metro says the vehicles will be equipped with bike racks and wheelchair lifts. Bicycles and pets are allowed at no additional charge.
City leaders say the pilot is intended to make it easier for people to reach Golden Gardens without driving while helping reduce summer traffic and parking demand at the popular waterfront park.
Seattle City Councilmember Dan Strauss told KING 5 that Golden Gardens has long lacked a direct transit connection, noting that existing transit options require a lengthy walk or a hike from nearby bus stops.
The pilot service is scheduled to operate through Aug. 30.
The new shuttle launches alongside other summer changes at Golden Gardens. As My Ballard previously reported, Seattle Parks has also added private overnight security patrols and earlier seasonal closing hours at the park.
Photo: Seattle Parks