A ballot drop box will be installed at Crossroads Bellevue Mall so voters can return the ballots postage-free.

The box will be at the south entrance to the center, which is located at 15600 NE Eighth St. It is one of 11 that will be installed in King County.

The number of ballot drop boxes had been reduced to two as a cost-saving measure introduced at the beginning of the year. The boxes provide voters with the option of returning their ballot in person rather than by mail, and do not require postage.

“Voters have told us that drop boxes are an essential part of elections,” said Sherril Huff, Director of Elections. “While it’s important to watch the costs of government, voting is a basic right and we want to make sure it remains accessible and convenient.”

Ballot drop boxes were heavily utilized during the 2010 Primary Election, and voters expressed support for increasing the number available. New efficiencies and technological innovations by the Elections Department in the last year have helped the county to save money, providing an additional case for bringing back some drop boxes.

Ballot drop boxes will open on Oct. 14, and will remain open 24 hours a day until 8 p.m. on Election Day, Nov. 2.