King County Faces $200 Million Annual Road Maintenance Shortfall as Transit Funding Crisis Looms

“Given the dire state of our roads fund and the future needs of our transit system to make the most of connections to expanding regional light rail, now is the time to move forward with the most-needed funding and to make a plan for the future of the KC Transportation District,” Balducci said.

King County’s Roads Services Division manages roughly 1,500 miles of roads and 188 bridges in unincorporated King County. The Roads Division reports the system needs about $200 million in maintenance and safety investments each year, while its capital budget is only $6 million for the 2026-2027 biennium. Officials say even with reserves, transfers, and grant opportunities, the Roads fund is short of meeting basic roadway needs. December flooding caused at least $10 million in damage to county infrastructure.

Metro also faces funding challenges to continue its current level of operations. Metro estimates it will face a $1 million reserve shortfall by 2030-2031 and a $755 million reserve shortfall by 2032-2033. Metro and local communities have also expressed a need for more resources for transit safety and security. Metro, the region’s largest public transit system, operates about 11,500 bus trips each weekday and provides about 89 million boardings every year.

The meeting is expected to cover the extent of the funding problems, possible options to fill the gaps, and public input. A vote on possible funding is expected in March or April, requiring action at a future Transportation District Board meeting.