Sound Transit is seeking input of proposed 2013 service changes, including several that impact Bellevue.

The organization has released a draft of the 2013 Service Implementation Plan that seeks to maximize efficiencies on its ST Express system of regional buses by reducing service on low-performing routes while adding service to corridors where double-digit ridership growth has caused overcrowding on some buses.

The changes include additional peak-period service to address overcrowding on Routes 545 (Seattle – Redmond) and 550 (Seattle – Bellevue) and a new express service between Kent Station and Bellevue/Overlake timed to meet peak-direction Sounder trains at Kent Station.

Sound Transit also plans on removing low-ridership midday trips on Route 566 (Auburn – Overlake) and increasing the efficiency of the all-day service between Westwood Village and Sea-Tac Airport and Bellevue on Route 560 by deleting service between the Alaska Junction and Westwood Village to avoid duplication with Metro RapidRide.

The proposed changes will go live during regularly scheduled service changes in June and September of 2013. Sound Transit is using a series of upcoming public meetings and a public hearing in November to seek input on the proposed changes. Input gathered will be presented to the Sound Transit Board in December as it considers the service plan during the agency’s budget development process.

A summary and complete Draft Service Implementation Plan is available at www.soundtransit.org/SIP. Comments can be submitted at the open houses, public hearing or Board meeting and also emailed to fastride@soundtransit.org.