The Island Transit rebranding event was more than just a celebration of a new look and feel; it was a testament to the community spirit and the power of public transportation to bring people together.
Among the attendees were three young transit enthusiasts who traveled exclusively by public transportation to join the festivities. Their stories highlight the backgrounds and shared passion that make the transit community unique and vibrant.
Parker:
Parker, a 20-year-old from California who grew up in Washington, has been fascinated by trains and buses for as long as he can remember. His interests in roads and infrastructure were only heightened during the COVID-19 pandemic when he began walking extensively and noticing the challenges faced by pedestrians, bikers and public transit users.
Parker’s dedication to public transportation is evident in his frequent use of King County Metro and Pierce Transit, averaging five trips per week.
Hearing about the Island Transit rebranding event from fellow enthusiasts, Parker was determined to attend. His journey was a testament to his commitment, starting with a King County Metro bus, transferring to Sound Transit’s light rail, then a Community Transit bus to Mukilteo, followed by a ferry to Clinton, and finally the Route 1 Northbound Island Transit bus to the Island Transit facility in Coupeville.
Parker praised Island Transit for its community outreach and fare-free service, aspects that make it one of his favorite transit agencies. As a member of the Pierce Transit Citizen Advisory group and an active Instagram user, Parker continues to advocate for improved infrastructure and public transportation accessibility.
Nathan:
Nathan, also 20 and from Lynwood, WA, has been captivated by vehicles, trains, ferries and buses since childhood. Currently studying diesel mechanics, Nathan’s connection to public transportation began in high school when he relied on it daily.
Now, he takes public transportation whenever he can, especially for significant events like the Island Transit rebranding.
Nathan’s journey to the event involved taking a Community Transit bus to Mukilteo, followed by a ferry to Clinton and then the Route 1 Northbound Island Transit bus. His anticipation was high, eager to see the new livery and reconnect with the agency that provided his first bus experience in Langley.
Nathan’s enthusiasm extends beyond riding buses; he created a Discord server in 2021 to foster conversations and connections among transit fans, which now boasts about 200 members. Nathan shares his transit adventures and encourages others to explore public transportation.
Zack:
At 22, Zack from Bremerton, WA has always had a knack for numbers and trip planning. As a senior in college studying business administration and communications, Zack appreciates the environmental benefits of public transportation and the community it creates.
Using Kitsap Transit 3 to 4 times a week, Zack heard about the Island Transit rebranding event through Instagram and his friends Parker and Nathan on the Discord server they met through.
Zack was thrilled to see the new livery and design of Island Transit’s rebrand. For Zack, the highlight was walking through the maintenance building, engaging with Island Transit employees, and connecting with fellow transit enthusiasts. His social media captures his transit experiences and the friendships formed through shared interests.
The Island Transit rebranding event was a resounding success, not just for its unveiling of new designs but for the community connections it fostered. Parker, Nathan and Zack exemplify the passion and dedication for the transit community, highlighting the essential role public transportation in connection and inspiring future advocates.
Check out the Instagram accounts of Parker, Nathan and Zack to get inspired: Parker (@buffered_bike_lane), Nathan (@pnwtransit) and Zack (@zackary.shoemaker)
