Pierce County Approves Prop 1: Pierce Transit to Deliver 47% More Bus Service

Based on initial election results, Pierce County voters approved Proposition 1, providing Pierce Transit with additional funding to support a 47% increase in local transit service.

Prop 1 increases Pierce Transit’s sales tax rate from 0.6% to 0.9% — an additional 3 cents per $10 spent on qualifying purchases made within our service area. The new rate takes effect April 1, 2027.

Pierce Transit will begin a phased expansion of service starting in 2027, with full implementation expected by the end of 2032. The voter-approved Proposition 1 package introduces new bus routes, seasonal waterfront trolley routes and special-event service. More frequent service will be added on many existing routes and service will run longer hours and later into the evenings. The package also includes expanded SHUTTLE paratransit service for riders with disabilities and improved connections between local routes and regional transit.

Beginning April 1, 2027, seniors age 65 and older will be able to ride Pierce Transit buses free with a Regional Reduced Fare Permit (RRFP), joining youth who already ride free. Seniors can get their RRFP card by visiting a Pierce Transit Customer Service Center or myORCA.com.

Seniors who are eligible for Pierce Transit SHUTTLE paratransit service will also ride free. Additional information about how eligible SHUTTLE riders can access this benefit will be shared ahead of the April 1 launch.

Because more service requires careful planning, purchase of vehicles, and hiring more staff, changes will be implemented in phases. Community engagement will continue throughout implementation. Pierce Transit intends to work with the community and local partners to continue to understand community needs and local priorities, and to refine service plans. More information can be found at PierceTransit.org.

“Thank you to the voters for investing in the future of local transit.” said Pierce Transit Board Chair and Tacoma City Councilmember Kristina Walker “With the passing of the measure, Pierce Transit will be able to provide our community with the level and type of services they need and have requested for years. The service expansion will be a gamechanger for our community.”

Mike Griffus, Pierce Transit’s CEO, shared “We appreciate the support voters in our service area have shown for public transit, and we take seriously the responsibility that comes with that trust. Because new buses can take two to three years to arrive after they are ordered, we are moving quickly to begin purchasing buses, recruiting and training operators, and planning the infrastructure needed to support a 47% increase in transit service.”

Pierce Transit Vice Chair and Pierce County Councilmember Rosie Ayala said, “We look forward to working alongside our communities every step of the way to deliver transit improvements that better connect people to the places, opportunities, and services that matter most in their lives.”