Microsoft’s return-to-office policy (RTO) takes effect today, on February 23, 2026, with implications that extend beyond company operations to regional transportation, downtown business activity, and commercial real estate.
It has clarified its flexible work policy and said it is not tied to headcount reductions.
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Microsoft’s Return-to-Office Starts for Puget Sound
Microsoft’s updated return-to-office policy takes effect today for Puget Sound-area employees, bringing changes not just for workers but for the region’s transportation networks and downtown areas.
Employees living within 50 miles of a Microsoft office are now expected to work onsite at least three days per week.
The company describes this as a clarification of its flexible work policy rather than a major overhaul. Teams maintain flexibility on which days employees come in, though some roles may require more on-site time.
The policy begins immediately for Seattle-area workers. Previously, Microsoft’s hybrid model allowed remote work up to about half-time without manager approval.
The biggest effects on commute times will probably happen Tuesday through Thursday, when hybrid workers typically choose to come to offices. That means increased pressure on key Eastside routes, especially State Route 520 and Interstate 90.
Washington state transportation data shows these corridors can become significantly less reliable with even modest increases in traffic volume. Commuters may need to budget extra time even before average trip times change noticeably.
Public transit continues its post-pandemic rebound. The Puget Sound region recorded 172 million transit boardings in 2024, about three-quarters of 2019 levels. King County Metro saw nearly 14% growth in weekday bus ridership over the past year.
They will consider the best 8 weeks of attendance in a 12 weeks period (that’s how they are accounting for vacations too). What the consequences will be if someone fails to meet this… not sure.
Berndverst
A major development arrives later this month: the East Link light rail extension opens, providing direct service between Seattle and Bellevue. This gives cross-lake commuters a frequent alternative to driving.
Bellevue and surrounding cities are particularly sensitive to Microsoft’s attendance patterns. The company employs more than 44,000 workers locally, with over 47,000 working on the Redmond campus alone.
While three days in the office isn’t a full return to pre-pandemic patterns, Microsoft’s massive local footprint means even modest increases in onsite attendance will create visible changes across the region’s transportation systems and downtown commerce.
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