King County Metro has temporarily closed the bus stops at 12th Avenue South and South Jackson Street starting Monday due to ongoing safety concerns in the area.
According to Metro, the decision was made to ensure the safety of passengers, operators and employees as the area continues to experience regular illegal activity.
Metro has not specified any previous incidents in the area, although five people were stabbed on November 10 and five more in early November.
The stops will remain closed until further notice.
Affected routes include 1, 7, 9, 14, 36, 60 and 106. Passengers can use nearby stops along South Jackson Street, Rainier Avenue South and other alternate locations.
Metro has notified passengers through Transit Alerts and posted notices at affected stops.
Alternative stops are provided for each route:
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Routes 1, 7, 14 and 106: Nearby stops include South Jackson Street at 8th Avenue South (eastbound) and South Jackson Street at Boren Avenue South (westbound). Additional stops for Route 7 and Route 106 are available at Rainier Avenue South and South King Street.
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Route 36: Riders can use stops at South Jackson Street at 8th Avenue South or 12th Avenue South and South Weller Street.
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Route 60: Alternate stops include 12th Avenue South and South Weller Street and East Yesler Way at Broadway.
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Route 9: Northbound riders can board at Boren Avenue at East Yesler Way or Rainier Avenue South and South Dearborn Street. Southbound stops include Rainier Avenue South and South King Street.
The Seattle Streetcar First Hill route will continue to operate at the stop at 12th Avenue South and South Jackson Street.
According to King County Metro, Metro Transit Police and Seattle Police are working together to address safety concerns in the area.
Metro stated that these closures are temporary and updates will be provided as safety concerns are reduced.
