“I still remember the first time I took transit in Seattle, not going to lie, I was a bit intimidated at first, but someone showed me how to do it, which helped me feel confident when I took that first trip.” Says Miriam Castro, Program Manager with U District, Let’s Go!  “I look forward to passing it on and helping others learn too.”

U District, Let’s Go is helping to connect people working, living and visiting the U District with transportation resources. It is a year long pilot in collaboration with Transportation Choices Coalition (TCC), Seattle Department of Transportation and the U District Partnership, supported by a WSDOT project using Congestion Mitigation & Air Quality (CMAQ) funds. “I am thrilled at the opportunity to build this program from the ground up and work in collaboration with such great partners and in one of the best neighborhoods in the city.” Says Castro, who previously, worked with the University of Washington for the past five years.

A lot of changes are happening in the neighborhood especially with the addition of Link light rail in 2021. U District, Let’s Go is planning events like Transit Talks,  neighborhood walks and outreach at the Saturday Farmers Market, as a way to help people navigate changes and be prepared. “I’m really excited about our upcoming Coffee & A LIFT events.” Said Castro. “We’re partnering with neighborhood coffee shops and community centers to help get people enrolled in ORCA LIFT, King County Metro’s reduced fare transit pass.” The first enrollment is coming up on January 31 at Street Bean, see details here.

The program is also engaging with small businesses by helping them learn about the advantages of providing an employer subsidized transportation benefit. “U District, Let’s Go is a perfect opportunity to have an expert help you and your employees navigate the changing transportation landscape in the U District and make best use of an array of available resources.” Says Chase Landrey, Community Engagement Coordinator with U District Partnership. For people working in the U District, the program is offering free individualized commute planning services to help them find a better commute.

U District, Let’s Go kicked off programming earlier this year. “We are thrilled with the opportunity to share all the great ways to get around the U District. With great stores to shop at and fabulous eating joints, the U District has something for everyone. ” Says Carla Chavez, TCC’s Deputy Director.

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