$25 ORCA Cards to Support Eastside Businesses
Bellevue is entering a unique moment for transportation. With major construction, special events, and new transit infrastructure in 2026, many employees are facing longer or less predictable commutes.
King County Metro and Connect Bellevue are partnering with local business alliances and organizations to distribute $25 pre-loaded ORCA cards to employers in Bellevue for their employees’ use. By enabling employees to explore available transit options, you can help reduce commute stress during disruptions and help employees explore reliable transit options.
What’s Impacting Commutes in 2026
Revive I-5: Major construction along I-5 will affect regional travel times, reliability, and access throughout the year.
2 Line Crosslake Connection: The upcoming Crosslake Connection, opening March 28, will expand Eastside light rail access, creating new transit opportunities for employees commuting into and through Bellevue.
I-405 Brickyard to SR 527 and Renton to Bellevue Construction: Multiple projects along I-405 are underway to add capacity and improve reliability. Construction may affect travel times and patterns in the near future.
World Soccer Tournament 2026: While many construction projects will pause during the tournament, the event is expected to bring 750,000+ visitors to the region between June 8 and July 13, 2026. Increased travel demand during this period is likely to result in heavier congestion on roads and transit systems.
How the ORCA Cards Work
Each ORCA card includes $25 in transit value
ORCA cards are accepted for fare payment on most major public transportation in the region, including buses, light rail, streetcars, and water taxis.
Who is Eligible?
This program is intended to support small businesses, service or hospitality sectors, employers who do not offer an ORCA Passport or Choice program, and any others who are most affected by these traffic disruptions to ensure that these cards are going to businesses with the highest need
Interested In Taking Part?
If your business meets the criteria, submit the request form below.
Questions?
If you have questions about eligibility or how this program works, we’re happy to help.
Kenzie McDonald | Transportation Demand Management Specialist