3:35 PM Tue, Aug 12, 2008 | Permalink |
The Seahawks sent over an e-mail saying the public transportation used to help fans get to Qwest Field has ended.
This past April, the Federal Transit Administration ruled that if any private bus operators are interested in providing game day transportation services for fans then Metro would not be permitted to operate the bus service. The Seahawks were obligated to negotiate with those charter bus companies.
The Hawks say they've looked into charter bus service for the fans, but the cost would be too prohibitive, an increase of $14. So now the 12th Man will have to rely on driving themselves, use the regular scheduled bus service (meaning no additional buses provided to help the gameday rush), or get a ride from a friend. You can see the release after the jump.
New Federal Rules Alter Transportation Options for Seahawks Fans
KIRKLAND, WASH. - Seahawks fans that normally use King County Metro Transit's Seahawks game day bus service from park-and-ride lots will need to secure alternate transportation to the preseason games, the team announced today.
This past April, the Federal Transit Administration ruled that if any private bus operators are interested in providing game day transportation services for fans then Metro would not be permitted to operate the bus service. The Seahawks were obligated to negotiate with those charter bus companies.
The Seahawks received one bid which included an increase in passenger fares by $14. In addition, the bid did not include approvals to use roadways, park-and-ride lots and staging areas that are necessary to operate the service safely and effectively.
"We are very disappointed," said Seahawks CEO Tod Leiweke. "We have made the game day experience one of our highest priorities. The bid we received did not address our requirements for a safe, effective or reliable bus plan. We will continue to work toward a resolution to meet the needs of our fans."
For those impacted fans, the Seahawks recommend using regular Metro service, Sound Transit ST Express buses and the Sounder Train. ST Express buses offer transportation from areas throughout Pierce, King and Snohomish counties with service every 30 minutes and stops within three blocks of Qwest Field.
When we are supposed to be using our cars less, why is the federal government imposing regulations that prevent us from using it to get to events? The whole problem with mass transportation is that it doesn't go where we need to go when we need to get there. Here is one example of a time when mass transit can be very useful. Anyone knows that privately operated transportation is going to be more restrictive and more expensive because they have to buy extra vehicles and licenses.
WTF?
Our Stadium, Our Busses, but we can't save gas & money by using them?
Why doesn't our esteemed, highly regarded, transportation agency bid? With their keen, smooth efficient administration staff I'm sure they could be competitive.
Wow!! What a great idea!!!!
Lets make a football game, we can barely afford, harder to get to.
Only in America.............