Sound Transit Leaders Plan to Give Fare Gates a Closer Look
Eyeing upgrades happening at other transit systems around the country, Sound Transit CEO Dow Constantine is set to propose further analysis of implementing fare gates at stations. The agency hopes to increase fare compliance on Link light rail, shoring up a revenue source.
Powered Link Train Crosses I-90 for First Time in Pivotal Test
With the long-awaited inaugural "live wire" test successful, Sound Transit will continue tests on the Lake Washington bridge for another 10 to 12 weeks, followed by several months of running empty trains. Monday's test was a crucial milestone to stay on track for a full 2 Line grand opening next spring.
King County Council Unsnags RapidRide I Line After Property Disputes
After considering a broader slate of property condemnations to keep the RapidRide I Line on track for a 2027 opening, the council is poised to approve a compromise measure much narrower in scope.
While Seattle Population Spikes, Car Population Stalls Out
Seattle's human population is growing fast, but its car population has stalled out. Between 2017 and 2023, Seattle added 35,000 households and about 80,000 residents, but just 3,300 cars, new Census data has revealed -- in news that is music to urbanist ears.
Sound Transit Eyes Double-Length Light Rail Vehicles for Next Major Purchase
The Series 3 cars, set to go into service starting in 2033, would boost passenger capacity by between 5% and 13% while being 10% cheaper. Other details, including passenger layout and amenities, remain to be determined as Sound Transit continues planning.
The Sound Transit Board Signals a Return to Parochialism
Faced with an agency-wide budget gap approaching $30 billion for the next wave of expansion plans, Sound Transit boardmembers are retreating to their corners and doubling down on parochialism. Clearly, a more holistic approach is needed, driven by outcomes and regional cooperation.
Harrell Stumps for West Seattle, Ballard Light Rail, Facing Financial Headwinds
A press event in Ballard Tuesday was intended to bolster support for getting Seattle's next two light rail lines across the finish line. But rhetoric won't change the dynamics on the Sound Transit board, which feature suburban leaders just as dug in to prioritize the spine from Tacoma to Everett.
Sound Transit to Overhaul Sounder Railcar Fleet
The original 58 Sounder railcars, which have been in service since the launch of Sound Transit's first commuter rail line in 2000, will see a full refurbishment to extend their life. The overhauls come at a turning point for the future of Sounder.