The King County Water Taxi set a new one-day ridership record April 5 as 3,429 riders took advantage of a warm, sunny opening day to make their first trip of the season on the West Seattle-to-downtown passenger ferry.

“There’s no better way to enjoy a sunny day in April than taking a ride on the King County Water Taxi,” said Metropolitan King County Council Chair Dow Constantine, who also serves as chair of the King County Ferry District Board. “The Water Taxi is a great transportation alternative for commuters and a lifeline for the West Seattle neighborhood when traffic on the West Seattle Bridge is slowed or halted—but it’s also a fun way to get downtown on a Sunday afternoon.”

The previous record for opening day ridership was 2,404 riders on April 29, 2007.

The Water Taxi is now known as the King County Water Taxi to reflect the fact that the King County Ferry District has taken over operation of the route. The boat also has a new look, dock signage has been improved, and the Water Taxi will accept the new ORCA fare cards in addition to other transit passes.

The free shuttle van service has been split in to two routes—with Route 773 serving the West Seattle Junction and Route 775 serving the Admiral District, Alki and Harbor Avenue.

The one-way fare for the King County Water Taxi is $3 for anyone over the age of 5. Passengers with a valid Metro transfer pay just $1. All valid Metro passes are accepted for full fare.

For more information on the King County Water Taxi, call (206) 553-3000 (TTY 206-684-1739) or go to www.kingcounty.gov/metro. Once service begins, riders can check on the current operating status of the Water Taxi by calling (206) 205-3866.