By Adè Franklin, Transit Facilities Division Director
Ahead of Earth Day on April 22, I would like to take a moment to reflect on the work we are doing at Metro to meet the challenge of climate change in our region. Our most visible investment is seen in our buses through our commitment to a zero-emissions fleet—but it is only one part of the many initiatives happening across our agency. 
One example is our recent transition to high-efficient LEDs at all our worksites. This undertaking involved the evaluation of over 26,000 bulbs of varying types and the replacement of older and inefficient light fixtures to LEDs. At South Base and the Component Supply Center alone, we replaced over 2,300 light fixtures.
Our transition to LEDs at all Metro worksites is a milestone towards our energy conservation goals in the King County Strategic Climate Action Plan. This project has reduced Metro’s power use by nearly 11,000,000 kilowatt hours (kWh) annually—that’s enough to power 915 homes!
LEDs also provide a safer working environment by creating brighter spaces with more evenly distributed light and reduces hazards if they break by not releasing toxic gasses like our old lights.
I am proud of the collective focus, wisdom, and energy of all those who came together to deliver sustainable maintenance services and helped Metro meet its facility energy efficiency goals.
Every action, small and large, makes a collected difference in our efforts to combat climate change. Together, we will move mobility forward. Happy Earth Day!