In their latest podcast episode, The Urbanist newsroom discusses the big opening day for Sound Transit's crosslake 2 Line and what it means for the future of light rail expansion in the Seattle region. In a series of speeches from Sound Transit leaders, officials waxed poetic on the significance of the day and some argued it provided momentum as the agency heads into the next round of expansions, with several projects way overbudget.
More than 200,000 riders piled on Link light rail during the 2 Line's March 28 opening day, which led to some long lines, especially at Judkins Park Station, where they cut the ribbon. Even with lengthy wait times, it was still good enough for the second busiest day in Link's history.
This grand opening was a long time in the making. We discussed all the twists and turns over the region's history to finally arrive at a light rail connection between Seattle and the Eastside, from the failure of Forward Thrust to the Sound Transit 2 ballot measure to modern siting battles.
We also discussed the variety of approaches to transit-oriented development that cities along the line took, with Mercer Island the most hesitant to add housing, even to the point of fighting state housing rules – unsuccessfully. The area around Judkins Park, meanwhile, has seen about 3,000 homes either added or in the development pipeline.
Finally, we discussed how the agency might solve its financial woes plaguing Sound Transit 3 projects so that the next new lines can open as soon as possible.
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This episode of The Urbanist Podcast was edited by your truly. Episodes also air on KVRU 105.7 FM radio Thursdays at 4pm. Thanks to Crystal Fincher and Shannon Cheng of KVRU for their assistance. Follow us on your favorite podcast platform to help us spread the word.
Ryan Packer
