TransitThursday, November 12
Pierce Transit's board OKs buying up to 60 buses as Prop 1 leads
The Daily Tacoma team
If you ride Pierce Transit, more buses could be coming if Prop 1 is approved. At its Nov. 9 meeting, the board unanimously authorized CEO Mike Griffus to purchase or refurbish a maximum of 60 buses. “With nationwide supply chains heavily backlogged, securing our manufacturing slots immediately is critical,” Griffus said.
- Sales tax: would rise from 0.6% to 0.9% on April 1
- Extra tax: three cents on every $10 spent
- Reduced fare permit holders would ride free starting April 1
- New vehicle deliveries can take two to three years
47%more bus service that Prop 1 would fund
Pierce Transit expects to reach the full boost by the end of 2032.
Sources: FOX 13 Seattle, The Urbanist
Early returns put Prop 1 at 57.7% on Nov. 4, and a 15% lead a day later. KNKX reported the measure would add four new routes. Pierce Transit's earlier sales tax measures failed in 2011 and 2012.
Buses are approved now, and the tax and service boost come later
- Nov. 9Pierce Transit's board authorizes up to 60 buses.
- Apr. 1Sales tax would rise from 0.6% to 0.9% if Prop 1 passes.
- 2032Pierce Transit expects the full 47% service boost by the end of the year.
Sources: KIRO 7 News Seattle, FOX 13 Seattle
Sources: KIRO 7 News Seattle, FOX 13 Seattle, KNKX, The Urbanist