Due to anticipated record ridership and higher than expected revenues, King County Metro Transit will extend service on the West Seattle Water Taxi through October, ending on Nov. 2. The extended service will be offered on weekdays only and serve commuters traveling between Seacrest Dock and Pier 55 along the downtown Seattle waterfront.

The Water Taxi had been scheduled to halt its 10th sailing season last Sunday.

"The value of the Elliott Bay Water Taxi was particularly evident during the Interstate 5 construction when it carried more than 2,300 passengers in nine days," said County Executive Ron Sims. "That's proof more residents are willing to leave their cars at home and try the Water Taxi."

"Each month of this season's Water Taxi ridership has exceeded its record 2006 numbers," said County Councilmember Dow Constantine. "This shows the viability of waterborne transit as part of King County's transportation future. Once the King County Ferry District is funded, we can make the Water Taxi and Vashon passenger ferry permanent and establish new routes to take advantage of our region's navigable waters."

Ron Sims

King County Executive