Full Breakdown
Record Ridership for Seattle Seahawks Super Bowl Parade
2/13/2026, 9:12:14 PM
Sound Transit Achieves Potential Ridership Milestone
On February 11, 2026, Sound Transit reported a significant increase in ridership as it transported fans to and from the Seattle Seahawks Super Bowl parade. Preliminary estimates suggest that around 200,000 passengers utilized the transit system, potentially setting a new single-day record, surpassing the previous high of 159,500. Sound Transit CEO Dow Constantine highlighted the importance of this event, stating, “Those trains were full; it was a huge day for transit.” The agency had proactively planned for the parade, coordinating with other transit agencies weeks in advance, anticipating the Seahawks' success.
Kitsap Transit and Washington State Ferries Report Record Numbers
Kitsap Transit also experienced record ridership during the parade, with 2,474 passengers traveling to Seattle in the morning and 1,856 returning in the afternoon. This surge was facilitated by the addition of seven extra ferry runs from Bremerton, which included four morning and three afternoon trips. The increased service aimed to accommodate the high demand from Seahawks fans.
Challenges and Responses
Despite the successful transportation efforts, Sound Transit faced challenges leading up to the event. Early on the morning of the parade, crews worked to repair damage to the Link light rail line caused by copper wire theft. This disruption briefly affected service between Angle Lake and Federal Way, but repairs were completed before sunrise. Sound Transit spokesperson Henry Bendon emphasized the agency's commitment to rider safety and service reliability, stating, “We want to protect it and we want to keep doing that.” In response to ongoing theft issues, Sound Transit has increased security measures and is collaborating with the King County Sheriff's Office.
Official Statements & Responses
Sound Transit and Kitsap Transit officials expressed satisfaction with the ridership numbers and the overall success of their transportation efforts during the parade. Bendon remarked on the significance of the event for both the Seahawks and the transit system, framing it as a collective victory for the community.
Criticism & Opposition
While the record ridership is a positive outcome, some critics have raised concerns about the ongoing issue of theft and vandalism affecting transit infrastructure. The need for enhanced security measures has been highlighted as a critical area for improvement to ensure the safety and reliability of transit services.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Those trains were full; it was a huge day for transit,” — Henry Bendon, Sound Transit Spokesperson
This event not only showcased the Seahawks' success but also underscored the vital role of public transit in accommodating large crowds during significant community events.
