Community Transit is here to get you where you want to go. We are proud to be a part of the Monroe community — we live here, ride here, and drive here. Wherever you need to go in Monroe, feel good about how you get there.
Monroe is located at the confluence of the Skykomish, Snohomish, and Snoqualmie rivers near the Cascade foothills, about 30 miles northeast of Seattle. Its population was estimated to be 20,209 in 2021.
The city's largest employer is the Washington State Department of Corrections, which operates the Monroe Correctional Complex and provides more than 1,100 jobs. Other large employers include the Monroe School District, the Cadman quarry, the Evergreen State Fair, EvergreenHealth Monroe, and large retailers.
Popular destinations include its 14 parks — including Al Borlin Park and Lake Tye Park. Monroe also has 14 miles of multi-use pedestrian and bicycle trails that connect neighborhoods and parks.
People traveling to and from the area can choose from multiple routes served by Community Transit buses, DART paratransit service, and Vanpool.
Monroe also has a privately owned airfield, First Air Field, located adjacent to the Evergreen State Fairgrounds.
Snohomish County leaders are preparing for a greener future, and Community Transit is no exception. Community Transit plans to strengthen its commitment to environmental sustainability by studying a move to zero-emissions buses and the infrastructure, systems, and employee training needed to support that technology. These activities align closely with state and county initiatives.
The first step in transitioning to a zero-emissions fleet is to look at the different technology options to decide what the best fit is for Community Transit. We recently began testing a 60-foot battery electric bus. Bus drivers and mechanics are getting a chance to “kick the tires” on this leased bus. The Community Transit Board of Directors also had a chance to check out the bus and hear more about the developing strategy behind the move to zero-emissions.
Moving to a zero emissions fleet would be a fundamental change and transform how we do business. There will need to be changes to our facilities, technology, operations, and training programs. It’s all part of a years-long approach to evaluating and developing a sustainable strategy that will benefit transit riders for generations to come.
Next year, two Community Transit-owned zero-emissions buses will hit the streets! It will be a whole new experience for riders and another step toward lowering carbon emissions and preserving the beautiful environment we call home.