What's Happening Now
Sound Transit announces timeline for Ballard light rail
On July 31, Sound Transit announced that it is still possible to build light rail to Ballard by 2042. To do so, they need to meet the following milestones.
- By 2030: Identify about $1 billion in savings or financial capacity to buy property between the Seattle Center and Market Street in Ballard.
- By 2032: Complete final design, giving the Sound Transit Board a clearer understanding of the project’s cost and remaining opportunities for savings.
- By 2033: Secure the funding needed to build the full line by 2042.
Without cost savings or new financial capacity, light rail service to Smith Cove, Interbay, and Ballard could be delayed until 2060. Learn more in Sound Transit's and Seattle City Council's blog posts.
Light Rail Projects
About the Expansion
In the coming years, Sound Transit will build new light rail lines from the Chinatown/International District to Ballard and from SODO to West Seattle. This expansion will include a new transit tunnel under Downtown and two water crossings. It is the largest transit investment in our city’s history.
In addition to the new lines, Sound Transit will also build three new stations along existing routes. These include:
• Pinehurst Station
• Graham Street Station
• Boeing Access Road Station
Why Light Rail?
Benefits of expanding light rail
- reduces traffic congestion
- improves air quality, environmental sustainability
- attracts new businesses and residents
- revitalizes neighborhoods
- adds rapid, reliable and efficient high-capacity service
- enhances mobility, especially for those who depend on transit
How light rail differs from bus transit
- greater capacity
- improved reliability with dedicated travel space
- economic development potential
Please refer to Sound Transit's website for details on project delivery dates.
Map graphic: Sound Transit
How the City and Sound Transit Work Together
City of Seattle |
Sound Transit |
| Leads the design and construction of street improvements to make it safer to travel to and from the light rail stations in Seattle | Leads the design and construction of the West Seattle Light Rail Extension and Ballard Light Rail Extension, known as Sound Transit 3 (ST3) |
| Manages arterial and residential street use and maintenance in the City of Seattle | Operates the light rail system in Seattle and throughout the region |
| Updates city codes to align permit requirements with city environmental goals | Manages the siting for light rail stations and track alignments |
| Ensures compliance with city codes and permit requirements | Discusses mitigation efforts with property and business owners |
| Develops transit-oriented design around the station | Develops transit-oriented design at the station |
| Engages stakeholders and the public about its areas of responsibility | Engages stakeholders and the public about its areas of responsibility |
| Overseen by the Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT), the Mayor, and City Council | Overseen by the CEO and Board of Sound Transit |