Green Line, Green Spaces

Now that Swift Green Line is operational, you may have noticed a "green" area behind the northbound station on 128th St. SE at 3rd Ave. SE.

A Swift Green Line bus pulls into the northbound station on 128th St. SE at 3rd Ave. SE, just in front of a Native Growth Protection Area and wetlands.

At first glance, it appears to be just a bunch of wild brush, but every leaf, stone, log, and blade of grass was actually placed there for a specific purpose. It's a Native Growth Protection Area (NGPA) that is intended to filter and clean water runoff from 128th St. before it joins the nearby wetlands to the east, and, eventually, North Creek.

Runoff from 128th St. comes into the area via street-level storm drains, filters through the vegetation and soil, and eventually seeps through holes in a pipe buried a few feet underground. It should be a slow process that often leaves the area damp and wetland-ish, but three years ago, the NGPA -- and the wetlands it drains into -- was drying up and dying.

Snohomish County, which is responsible for these areas, granted Community Transit special permission to rebuild the NGPA at its own expense in order to expedite the process and have the work complete in time for the opening of Swift Green Line.

The Native Growth Protection Area under construction in January 2018, before the Swift station was built.

After months of heavy construction to replace the underground stormwater drainpipe it was time to re-plant the area with native flora.

That's where Curtis LaPierre comes in. He's a senior landscape architect with Otak, the engineering firm contracted by Community Transit to rebuild the NGPA.

"We started from scratch to create a constructed biofiltration rain garden," Curtis said.

Landscape architect Curtis LaPierre reviewing design plans for the site.

Curtis and his team designed the area to slope like a natural swale (shallow ditch) then added layers of gravel, mulch and bioretention soil specially formulated to help clean the water before it enters the underground pipe.

Flood plants -- sedges, grasses and bulrushes -- were planted on the bottom of the swale. These native plants will thrive in the wet, marshy ground.

Sedges, grasses and bulrushes thrive in wet soil.

At strategic locations about midway up the swale wall, Curtis placed several logs, what landscape architects call "large woody debris."

"They function like natural shorelines," Curtis explained. "They will only occasionally be underwater -- perfect for amphibians and insects and the like."

Several strategically placed logs will become homes for frogs, insects and other damp-loving fauna.

The top of the slopes feature flowering shrubs like salmonberry and snowberry, and native trees like vine maple, hemlock and Douglas fir. They provide stability to the slope and, eventually, a visual screen to the residents of the condominiums on the other side.

The next time you're at the northbound Swift Green Line station on 128th St. SE at 3rd Ave. SE, take a peek at the rain garden. It's beautiful and functional, helping to clean stormwater runoff and protect nearby wetlands and streams -- all part of what makes Swift Green Line green.

Taking Swift Green Line to the Paine Field Passenger Terminal

In honor of our Swift Green Line opening this week, we are celebrating "Green Week" with a series of stories about our Swift service.

The anticipation is over! The Paine Field Airport Passenger Terminal is open with Alaska Airlines providing daily flights since March 4 and United Airlines set to begin service on March 31.

The timing couldn’t be better for the launch of Community Transit’s Swift Green Line on Sunday, March 24. Swift Green Line, the agency’s second bus rapid transit line, will connect with the Swift Blue Line at Airport Rd. and Highway 99, creating a high-frequency, high-capacity transit network. With Swift Green Line stations at Airport Rd. and 100th St., riders can catch a bus every 10 minutes on weekdays and every 20 minutes early mornings, nights and weekends to reach Paine Field.

From the Swift Green Line station, it’s just a short walk to the passenger terminal. We decided to video that walk from the northbound Swift Green Line station at Airport Rd. and 100^th St. to provide an actual view of what it’s like and how long it actually takes. This is the station that riders will arrive at if they take Swift Green Line from Mill Creek or Bothell. It’s also the same station that riders will arrive at if they transfer from Swift Blue Line coming from Everett Station or Lynnwood, Edmonds or Shoreline.

When walking to the passenger terminal, it’s important to note that pedestrians will need to cross Airport Rd. and then cross again to the south side of 100th St. where there is a sidewalk and walking path to the terminal.

Parts of the path are newly paved. Pedestrians will pass buildings such as a flight museum and several training facilities. There’s an Alaska Airlines office along the path that’s not part of the terminal, so keep walking. Just past Alaska Airlines, the sidewalk ends. You can see the terminal to your right. Follow the crosswalk markings across the parking lot to get to the terminal.

The walk takes about 10 minutes from the station to the terminal, depending on a few factors such as:

•       Wait time for walking signal at intersection
•       Walking speed
•       Baggage, and
•       Weather

This test walk took about 8 minutes; the weather was clear and sunny.

We are excited about the new service at the passenger terminal and just as excited to provide a reliable and consistent option to get there for those choosing not to drive. Swift Green Line riders can leave the driving to us, while they relax and enjoy the ride to the Paine Field Passenger Terminal.

7 Facts You Didn't Know About Our New Swift Buses

In honor of our Swift Green Line opening this week, we are celebrating "Green Week" with a series of stories about our Swift service.

In four days, Community Transit Swift Blue Line will be joined by the Swift Green Line, a milestone for Snohomish County's Swift Bus Rapid Transit network.

If you're new to the idea of bus rapid transit and Swift, you can read about it here.

We also have more details about Swift Blue Line and Swift Green Line, but for this post, we're going to focus on seven facts about our Swift buses you may not know.

It can take up to 2 years to get a bus

But in this case, it took 19 months (from order to delivery) for one Swift bus. There can be an additional 30-60 days added to that timeline. Below is Bus #18710 back in November 2018, waiting to be equipped and branded with Swift decals and trim.

Sweet 16: The number of buses ordered for the Swift Green Line

16 new buses were ordered to serve the Swift Green Line. These buses may look a little different (seating arrangements, windshield, headlights, etc.), but they will have the same branding, colors and signage as our current Swift Blue Line buses. You'll see both bus models serving the Swift network.

Two for the Blue

Two additional buses were ordered to increase the frequencies on the Swift Blue Line-- they were received last summer and put into service September 2018.

Two Swift buses (the newer model is on the left.)
You'll see both models serving the Swift Blue and Swift Green Lines.

21 Run

There are 21 activities, from installations to inspections, completed on a Swift bus before it goes into service.

Before our buses hit the road, they are outfitted with technology, equipment and amenities:

1. Delivery inspection
2. Replace engine oil and filter
3. Replace differential oil
4. Check and adjust tire pressures
5. Re-torque wheel lug nuts
6. Lube suspension
7. Set-up and test DVR system
8. Verify programming
9. Commission Advanced Public Transportation System (APTS).
   (This is the technology that enables us to track our buses in Dispatch and share real-time information via BusFinder and data feeds.)
10. Perform fire suppression system service
11. Set-up and test HVAC system
12. Install bike racks
13. Install Mobile Access Router (GPS)
14. Install destination sign emergency arrow switch
15. Install convex mirror
16. Install interior decals
17. Install schedule holders
18. Install and program Traffic Signal Priority (TSP) system
19. Installation of Swift graphics and decals
20. Program and commission radio system
21. Install: (2) garbage cans; Wheel blocks; First aid kit; Seat belt cutter; Insurance card holder; Destination sign legend/holder; Good to Go Pass; T-Key; and Tire Chains

Gimme a (Disc) Brake

A new Swift bus awaits inspection at the Merrill Creek Bus Yard in Everett.

The new Swift buses have disc brakes, reflecting a current trend in heavy duty vehicles to improve stopping performance. The disc brake actuators take up some space under the floor, resulting in some of the seat configuration changes you'll see on the new Swift buses.

It can take up to four hours to install the Swift graphics on a bus (And that's with two installers!)

So there you have it-- 7 fun facts about our new Swift buses. Did you learn something new? What else would you like to know?

The Swift Green Line service officially kicks off at Noon on Sunday, March 24. Get the details at https://www.communitytransit.org/swiftgreen.

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Swift Green Line Grand Opening Celebration, March 24

In honor of our Swift Green Line opening this week, we are celebrating "Green Week" with a series of stories about our Swift service.

If you’ve been wondering where you could take a selfie looking like you’re driving a Community Transit bus, check out some cool student transit art, and witness an historic Snohomish County public transportation milestone, look no further.

Join us for the official launch of the Swift Green Line Sunday, March 24, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at McCollum Park on 128th Street. We’re throwing a free public celebration with music, food trucks, Swift cookies, caricatures and more. Yes, Swift cookies!

KIRO 7’s Tracy Taylor will emcee the event. Speakers include Congressman Rick Larsen, State Senator Marko Liias, Snohomish County Executive Dave Somers, Snohomish County Councilmember Terry Ryan, Edmonds Mayor Dave Earling and Community Transit CEO Emmett Heath.

The big event will be the launch of the first Swift Green Line bus, which will depart McCollum Park at noon. Regular service on the Swift Green Line will also start at noon from both ends of the route, Canyon Park and Seaway Transit Center.

Don’t try to catch a Swift Green Line bus before noon that day!

With two Swift lines running every 10 minutes weekdays, this will be a major improvement for transit travel in south Snohomish County. You can read more about the Swift Green Line, and its connection to the Blue Line at Airport Road & Highway 99 at www.communitytransit,org/SwiftGreen.

Community Transit is making other service changes this coming week, especially to routes serving Boeing. Check out those changes at www.communitytransit.org/NewService.

See you on Sunday!

Meet Emily, Travel Training Program Graduate

Travel Training: Fostering Independence for People with Special Needs

Travel Training Graduate from Community Transit on Vimeo.

Emily learned about Travel Training by watching her younger brother, Kevin, gain his independence through the program. Even though Kevin has more limitations than Emily, his bravery and fierce determination were inspiring to her, and the push she needed to find her own path. "I thought if he could be successful at it, I could be successful at it."

Emily started working with Christine, her Travel Trainer, during her senior year of high school. In the beginning Emily's busy school and work schedules only allowed for 1-2 sessions with Christine per month. After graduation she was able to meet Christine more often and felt fully confident on the bus within a year of her first session. "At first it was a bit nerve-wracking, but over time it got more fun and I needed a little less help."

Some of the first places Emily learned to get to by bus were places Kevin went to, such as their family church and Mukilteo Beach. Since then Emily enjoys going to the library, the Dollar Store, and Alderwood Mall. She is even dreaming about learning how to get to downtown Seattle by bus, and trying Community Transit's Swift bus rapid transit network once the Swift Green Line opens in March.

Like many teenagers newly out of high school, Emily is trying to decide what is next. She thinks college might be a good plan, but for now she is dedicated to feeling more independent and trying new things. And, of course, being able to get where she wants is a big part of that independence. "Taking the bus often offers me an open door that I haven't opened yet growing up, and I think I want to keep following in Kevin's footsteps."

We think you are just as brave and adventurous as your brother, Emily. Your thoughtfulness and willingness to stay open to new experiences is really inspiring. We can't wait to see where your path leads you next.

Do you know someone with special needs who would benefit from our Travel Training Program? Visit communitytransit.org/TravelTraining or call (425) 348-2379.

The Giving Tree Experience

During the holiday season, many of us are busy shopping for our friends and family. It’s also the time of year when we consider ways we can help those in need within our communities, I do this by looking for volunteer opportunities. Donating my time or resources is valuable to me because I connect with neighbors and hopefully improve conditions for someone going through a difficult time.

As a newer employee with Community Transit, I was excited to participate in the employees’ Giving Tree program. The 2018 program, powered by employees, focused our efforts on bringing holiday cheer to homeless students living without a guardian.

Everett Public Schools’ Kids in Transitions (KIT) program helps homeless youth attend school without barriers or interruption. They organize community closets where students can find warm clothing to wear and pay fees for students to join sports or clubs.

For homeless students living without a guardian, it can be difficult to connect with support programs and resources during the winter break. While other students might be looking forward to time off from school, for these kids it’s time off from a warm building and hot meals. KIT coordinated with Community Transit employees to help students identified as “unaccompanied,” or without a legal guardian over the winter break.

Employees organized a gift drive for the teens, working with Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) employees on a Giving Tree program at both agencies. We took tags from “giving trees” located in their offices and purchased items listed on the tags, including sports gear, cosmetics and warm clothing. I took two tags and went shopping on a lunch break with a co-worker. We found and purchased a warm flannel, a hat, gloves and socks.

Donated items were gathered in a large room and organized by type. I and several of my co-workers volunteered personal time to wrap gifts and fill 105 backpacks with presents, personal hygiene kits, snack bags, gift cards valued at around $25 and a $10 ORCA card for use on public transit.

Community Transit employees wrapping gifts on break.

Backpacks were delivered to four high schools in the Everett and Mill Creek area. I was given the opportunity to help deliver backpacks and meet staff working with the KIT program. Kelly Shepherd, Sequoia High School principal, explained that for some of these kids, they would be receiving presents for the holidays for the first time in a while. Hearing stories about teens doing their best to attend school while dealing with homelessness, and the impact of our collective efforts gave me a feeling of being a part of something much bigger than myself.

This is the third year of a Giving Tree partnership between the agency, DSHS and Everett Public Schools. Over that time, 275 backpacks were provided to students. I’m so happy to have participated in the program this year. The opportunity to give and help these teens was a great gift and a highlight of my holiday season.  

Community Transit employees delivering backpacks to Everett Public Schools

Community partnership “giving trees” can remove the guesswork, for those who may not know how or where to donate during the holiday season. Personally, I enjoy when I find an intersection between my professional life and helping those in the community where I work and live. Working for an agency where employees are empowered to invest in our community, is one of many reasons why I am grateful to be part of Community Transit.

What ways will you give back in 2019?

Let's Go Holiday Shopping

Nothing ruins holiday cheer faster than a slow drive to the shopping center. Even worse? Once you finally get there, you discover the parking lot is completely full. As you circle around and around, you vow never to wait to the last minute to shop again. Make things easier this year by avoiding the stress of traffic and parking. Take the bus!

Let's go to Alderwood Mall

This mall really has it all: major department stores, trendy teen shops, and specialty stores that offer everything under the sun, from kayaks to fine jewelry. You can even grab lunch at a rotating sushi restaurant or nibble on cupcakes and coffee before wandering to a state-of-the-art multiplex theater.

Did you know that there are five bus routes that serve the Alderwood area? Most run every 30 minutes on weekdays, and every hour on evenings and weekends. Create your customized itinerary on our Trip Planner!



Park and Ride! Lynnwood Transit Center has plenty of parking at night and on weekends, and is a quick 10-minute bus ride to and from Alderwood Mall on routes 113, 115, and 116. Or park at Ash Way Park & Ride for a trip on 115, 116, or 196 that takes just minutes.

Let's go to Seattle Premium Outlets!

Searching for something big without the big price tag? Seattle Premium Outlets is your holiday shopping destination. This is the place for scoring great holiday deals on the famous brands your friends and family have been dreaming of. With over 130 upscale retail stores and plenty of food options, there's sure to be something for everyone on your list.

Routes 222 and 209 will take you there. Plan your trip on Trip Planner!

Have a wonderful holiday season, and enjoy the ride!