The first week of service on Auburn’s new transit route connecting Lakeland Hills to Auburn’s transit station posted an average of over 50 riders per day and has officials pleased with the initial success of this first-ever and unique partnership.

The Lakeland Hills Connector Service is a partnership between Pierce Transit, the City of Auburn, Sound Transit, and King County Metro Transit. It was created to help alleviate some of the commuter parking demand in downtown Auburn and provide much needed transit service to the residents of Lakeland Hills.

There are two convenient Park & Ride lots available to riders, Sunset Park at 1306 69th St. SE and the Family Life Center Church of God at 116 Lakeland Hills Way SE. In addition, there are five stops located along Lakeland Hills Way. Regular Pierce Transit fares apply and riders can pay with cash, ticket or bus pass. On return trips from the Auburn Sounder Station, Route 497 will wait for the Sounder Train to arrive from Seattle before departing for Lakeland Hills. Passengers may also transfer to regional and local buses at the station.

For more information on the Lakeland Hills Connector Service (Pierce Transit Route 497), call Pierce Transit’s Customer Services at 253-581-8000 or visit online at www.piercetransit.org.