After years of being faithful county employees, three dozen recently “retired” King County Metro Vanpool vans are preparing for a future of helping meet the transportation needs of county residents.

The King County Council unanimously approved the transfer of vehicles to local governments and community programs to provide transportation assistance.

Among the recipients are Nexus Youth and Families, Valley Cities, and the City of Algona’s Community Center.

The retired vans have been part of Metro Transit’s vanpool fleet for at least six years and have reached the end of their service life. When the vans reach this age, they are considered surplus. The vehicles that are not donated are sold by the County.

“The retired Metro vans are a tangible way we can help our community-based organizations,” said Councilmember Dave Upthegrove. “I look forward to seeing the amazing work the South King County recipients will do with their new vans”

In 1996, the council made its first donation of surplus vans. Over the last two decades, vans have been transferred to local nonprofit organizations to provide transportation for the disabled, low-income, young adults, and senior citizens.

“Since I first introduced the legislation to create the van donation program 22 years ago, King County has successfully recycled almost 600 vans in the service of helping some of our most vulnerable population,” said Councilmember Pete von Reichbauer. “These ‘retired’ vans provide a critical lifeline for low-income, elderly, disabled and young people, by facilitating their ability to be productive and engaged members of their communities.”

Interested organizations can contact the councilmember representing their district for more information on applying for a vehicle.