Overview
- The Seattle City Council voted unanimously Tuesday to place a measure on the November ballot that would double the city's dedicated transit sales tax from 0.15% to 0.3%.
- If voters approve, the levy is expected to raise about $1.4 billion over 10 years, with roughly $96 million per year set aside for expanded bus service and fixed annual amounts for streetcars, reduced-fare programs, and infrastructure upgrades.
- Analysts reported that the tax increase would push Seattle’s combined local and state sales tax rate to about 10.7%, a level noted as among the highest for major U.S. cities.
- City officials say the funds would add nearly 50% more King County bus service—about 100,000 additional trips focused on late-night and weekend routes—while meeting staffing obligations for regional projects and adding onboard safety measures after past attacks on drivers.
- The bill now goes to Mayor Katie Wilson for an expected signature before voters decide in November, and the plan faces criticism from some officials and residents who warn the higher rate will worsen the city’s cumulative tax burden during a time of rising costs.