Enhancements to Rainier Avenue South: A Significant Leap for Transit
Attention, all Route 7 riders! Exciting developments are underway in Seattle with the completion of the Rainier Avenue South Bus Lane project. This initiative is part of a citywide commitment to enhancing public transportation, making it more reliable and accessible for all.
Project Overview
In the latest phase of this ambitious project, the Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT) has expanded the northbound bus-only lane along Rainier Avenue South. The new lane stretches from South Walden Street to South Grand Street. But it doesn’t end there. The project has also involved repairing sidewalks in key pedestrian areas, installing marked crosswalks and signals, improving sidewalks, and ensuring that curb ramps are ADA-accessible. These enhancements have been designed with the primary goal of improving safety and accessibility throughout the corridor.
The Importance of Route 7
Route 7 is not just another bus line; it serves as a lifeline for residents in Rainier Valley. With an impressive average of 12,000 weekday riders (as of September 2025), it ranks among the highest-ridership bus routes in Seattle. Many commuters rely on this service to reach their destinations efficiently. By focusing on reliability, the extended bus lane aims to save almost five minutes per trip during peak morning hours, which is invaluable for busy passengers catching their rides to work, school, or appointments.
Funding and Commitment
This transformative project is made possible by the voter-approved Seattle Transit Measure, a testament to the city’s commitment to utilizing tax revenues for public good. Such investments are crucial for creating a safe, equitable, and vibrant urban environment, addressing climate change issues while offering sustainable transportation solutions.
The Project Map
The accompanying map illustrates the various phases of the project, highlighting key intersections and the extent of the newly designated bus lanes. This visual representation underscores the areas affected and the potential impact on transit routes in the region.
Background of Rainier Avenue South
Rainier Avenue South is a critical arterial route in Rainier Valley, connecting residents to essential services, parks, schools, and local businesses. Its role as a major transit corridor cannot be overstated, serving as a primary thoroughfare for multiple King County Metro bus routes including 4, 7, 9, 48, 50, and 106.
The extended bus lanes will not only streamline operations for Route 7 but will also ease traffic congestion, ultimately enhancing the overall transit experience for riders along this busy corridor.
Key Benefits of the Improvements
The enhanced bus lanes will facilitate better connections with other transit options, including the forthcoming Link 2 Line and the Judkins Park Light Rail Station, which is set to open in 2026. These improvements are strategically aligned to create a seamless transit experience for commuters.
During peak morning travel periods, buses on Route 7 will arrive more frequently—every 3.5 minutes. This allows riders on the corridor to save approximately two minutes on average trips, and up to five minutes during the most congested times.
Additional Safety Features
In addition to bus lane extensions, the project has introduced significant safety upgrades: new marked crosswalks, improved signals, and well-maintained sidewalks contribute to a safer environment for pedestrians. The installation of ADA-accessible curb ramps ensures that all individuals can navigate the area with confidence.
Looking Ahead
The Rainier Avenue South improvements are also preparing the community for future enhancements, including the upcoming RapidRide R Line project. This planned development promises further upgrades that will bolster transit speed, reliability, and accessibility.
As Seattle progresses towards an integrated and user-friendly transit system, these changes represent a fundamental shift in how residents experience transportation in their city. The enhancements to Rainier Avenue South are just the beginning of a broader vision for sustainable urban mobility, ensuring that transit is an attractive and viable option for all.