When the Snoqualmie Valley Transportation Program (SVT) began in 1998, it operated just for older adults in Snoqualmie, North Bend and Fall City and primarily provided rides to and from the senior center, medical appointments, and shopping. That changed in 2003 when the program extended to rural communities of the lower valley and expanded the ridership to anyone, regardless of age, with seniors and disabled adults still having priority. "The SVT is for everyone in the Valley," says Jonathan Nelson, the SVT Lead Dispatcher. 

Currently, the Snoqualmie Valley Transportation Program coordinates seven shuttles, four of which operate on continuous routes throughout the valley, encompassing nearby cities such as Snoqualmie, Fall City, Preston, Carnation, Duvall and Monroe. On an average day each shuttle provides three to four one-way rides per hour, adding up to about 3,000 one-way trips per month. Rides can be booked up to two weeks in advance and can also be utilized for shopping, school, work, or other special trips. The suggested donation for each ride is 25 cents for seniors, and 50 cents for everyone else.

Through partnerships, grants and collaborations the SVT is able to operate this valuable service. SVT has a partnership with Senior Services Seattle-King County and receives funds from the Washington State Department of Transportation, the City of Snoqualmie, the City of North Bend, Metro's Accessible Services, and the Snoqualmie Nation.

In 2008, the Snoqualmie Nation joined the collaboration, resulting in many enhancements to the SVT. Through the new partnership the SVT has increased drivers and vans which allow them to cover more territory throughout the Valley, and increase access for Tribal elders who participate in programs offered by the tribe or through the Mount Si Senior Center. At the center Tribal elders enjoy nutritious meals, foot care, and special outings. SVT buses are also used to take them to activities with other tribes in King County. Since partnering with the SVT, about 4,000 rides have been provided to Tribal members.

Charlotte Esch has been using the SVT since 2003. She recalls, "Back then trips were limited to the store and doctor appointments only. Now, you can go anywhere in the valley." Esch, who relies on a wheelchair for mobility, currently uses the service weekly for grocery shopping. "If the SVT did not exist, my brother would have to come from Renton to help me," she says, adding, "The service is unbelievable and the staff are very nice, personable, and accommodating." 

There's no doubt the Snoqualmie Valley Transportation Program provides a valuable service for these communities.