Two new innovative and free transportation services are now available to senior citizens and to people registered with King County Metro’s ACCESS transportation program in Southeast Seattle.

The Hyde Shuttle, named in honor of longtime Beacon Hill resident Lillian Hyde, went into operation on Oct. 1. In her will, Hyde bequeathed $403,839 to King County Metro’s ACCESS program to establish a shuttle service for seniors and people with disabilities who reside in Beacon Hill and Southeast Seattle. The shuttle van operates primarily in that area, but also make trips to medical facilities on First Hill. The service provides transportation to medical appointments, grocery shopping, banking, Senior Centers, and other popular destinations based on demand.

The shuttle van is lift-equipped and available on weekdays on a first-come, first-served basis by calling (206) 727-6262, or TTY (206) 296-3701. The Hyde Shuttle is being operated by Senior Services, a non-profit organization serving seniors throughout King County.

Hyde’s donation is also responsible for the creation of the new Ride Options Hotline, a free telephone service for seniors and ACCESS riders living in the area. The Ride Options Hotline connects callers with travel advocates from Senior Services. Together, they will identify needs and the advocates will find transportation options that include Metro bus service, the Hyde Shuttle, volunteer drivers, and other community based transportation programs. The Ride Options Hotline is available weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. by calling (206) 296-3700, or TTY (206) 296-3701.

"Mrs. Hyde’s gift will provide seniors and ACCESS customers with a higher level of mobility in their neighborhood," said Sandy Stutey, Metro ACCESS Supervisor. "The shuttle can pick up riders in the service area from locations not normally served by regular bus routes, and take them to specific locations or make a connection to Metro Transit. Combined with the Ride Options Hotline, we can now do more to help riders move about their community."

Cindy Zwart, Transportation Manager for Senior Services added, "Our agency is pleased to expand our ability to serve seniors, and to begin to provide assistance to people with disabilities as well. It is a welcome partnership with King County Metro."

King County Metro Transit is sending out mailers to more than 5,000 seniors and people registered for ACCESS Transportation who live in South Seattle and Beacon Hill to inform them about the new services. Additional information can also be found at Metro Online.