Get Involved#
Seattle has a vibrant ecosystem of advocacy groups working to make our city more walkable, bikeable, and transit-friendly. Here are organizations you can join to make a difference.
Advocacy Organizations#
Seattle Neighborhood Greenways#
Seattle Neighborhood Greenways organizes and mobilizes people to make every neighborhood a great place to walk, roll, bike, and live. Founded in 2011, they’re powered by volunteers and donors who believe we’re stronger together.
They envision streets and transportation systems that are truly accessible and welcoming, reflecting the needs of people of every age, language, ethnicity, gender, race, ability, and level of wealth. Their proven people-powered strategy has brought sidewalks, protected bike lanes, safe crosswalks, and pedestrian streets to neighborhoods across Seattle.
Get involved: seattlegreenways.org — Join a local neighborhood chapter or volunteer with their citywide campaigns.
Transit Riders Union#
An independent, democratic, member-run union of transit riders organizing for better public transit in Seattle, King County, and beyond. TRU is a grassroots advocacy organization focused on expanding public transit access and affordability.
They successfully advocated for ORCA Lift (the low-income fare program), conduct surveys and research on transit benefits, make electoral endorsements, and engage in direct outreach and organizing activities.
Get involved: transitriders.org — Become a member and join their campaigns for affordable, accessible transit.
Seattle Subway#
Seattle Subway envisions “a city and region fully connected by fast, reliable high capacity transit.” They’re an all-volunteer advocacy organization promoting rapid transit infrastructure development in the Seattle area.
They address traffic challenges by advocating for subway expansion as an underground solution that moves people efficiently while preserving neighborhood character and reducing environmental impact.
Get involved: seattlesubway.org — Volunteer, donate, or sign up for updates on regional transit campaigns.
Transportation Choices Coalition#
Transportation Choices Coalition advocates for “Transit for all.” They work to influence transportation decisions and promote equitable transit options for communities throughout Washington State.
Their policy work focuses on making transportation accessible, affordable, and sustainable for everyone.
Get involved: transportationchoices.org — Join their advocacy campaigns and stay informed on state transportation policy.
Commute Seattle#
Commute Seattle is Downtown Seattle’s Transportation Management Association, founded in 2004. Their mission is to help Downtown Seattle users live more and drive less by improving access and mobility.
As an alliance of the Downtown Seattle Association, King County Metro, Sound Transit, and the City of Seattle, they provide commuters, employers, and property managers with information and resources to promote alternatives to driving alone.
Get involved: commuteseattle.com — Connect with resources for your workplace or learn about transportation demand management.
Equity & Community Organizations#
Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle#
The Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle empowers communities of color to thrive by providing economic, educational, and employment support services. Their goal is to empower Black and other historically underserved people to thrive for generations through social and economic justice.
As the second-oldest civil rights organization in Washington State, ULMS focuses on five major pillars: housing, education, workforce development, health, and policy. Their work on housing and transportation equity connects directly to urbanism issues.
Get involved: urbanleague.org — Support their programs, volunteer, or engage with their policy advocacy.
Seattle Transportation Equity Program#
The City of Seattle’s Transportation Equity Program works to ensure equitable access to transportation services and opportunities across Seattle’s diverse communities. Their Office of Equity & Economic Inclusion focuses on racial justice, inclusive contracting, and fair resource allocation.
Key initiatives include Title VI compliance, the Race and Social Justice Ordinance, and contracting equity efforts for disadvantaged businesses.
Learn more: seattle.gov Transportation Equity — Understand how the city approaches transportation equity in planning and projects.