The Sound Transit Board of Directors has made a decisive move to accelerate the West Seattle Link Extension approving contracts that will push the project into its final design phase. This development comes on the heels of a major update to the Sound Transit 3 (ST3) system plan, demonstrating the agency‘s commitment to maintaining momentum despite financial challenges.
The board authorized a $341 million contract with Jacobs Engineering to complete the final design of the West Seattle Link. Additionally, a $48.7 million joint contract with Mott MacDonald and WSP (operating as Connect Seattle Partners) will support ongoing project management for both the West Seattle and Ballard Link projects. These approvals bring the total budget increase for West Seattle to $406.8 million with Ballard Link’s budget rising by $16.3 million.
The Urgency Behind the West Seattle Link Extension
Sound Transit Board Chair Dave Somers emphasized the urgency of these decisions, stating, “These are among the first steps we’re taking following the adoption of our updated plan. They demonstrate our commitment to maintaining momentum, delivering on our original ST3 vision. We’re moving forward with urgency.”
The funding approved will enable the West Seattle Link to reach 100% design while design work continues on the Ballard Link. This progress is crucial as West Seattle Link is the next light rail project in the queue and currently holds federal approval, a status that other projects do not yet enjoy.
Challenges and Future Steps for Ballard Link
Despite the lack of construction funding for the three northernmost stations in Interbay and Ballard, Sound Transit officials assure that the Ballard Link project is also moving forward. They have an additional six or seven years to secure the $7-$9 billion needed to complete the project up to 15th Avenue NW and NW Market Street where the Ballard station is planned.
Currently, West Seattle Link is at 30% design while Ballard Link is further behind with only about 15% of design work complete. The timeline for securing federal funding and navigating the federal environmental approval process remains uncertain, but getting the line to full design will allow for quicker implementation once funding is secured.
Design Refinements and Station Adjustments
The West Seattle Link project has undergone several design refinements, including the removal of the Avalon Way station which was originally approved by voters in 2016. This change has led to significant cost savings and allowed for redesigns of other major elements, such as the tunnel portal near Nucor Steel.
In SoDo which will serve as the transfer point for all 3 Line riders until additional stations open to the north, the station footprint has been significantly scaled back. Multiple escalators and elevators have been dropped in favor of a smaller concourse and canopy. Jason Hampton the West Seattle Link project director, explained that this consolidation of access and connections will naturally guide passengers to their destinations while reducing costs.
The Delridge Station has been redesigned as a side-loading station, similar to the 1 Line station in Mount Baker. This adjustment aligns with plans to use precast segmental construction for the rail guideway and reduces the need for expensive escalators. The station has also been shifted slightly north, opening up opportunities for redevelopment of a construction staging area at SW Andover Street.
At Alaska Junction the station has been slimmed down considerably, reflecting a broader effort to optimize design and reduce costs. These refinements highlight Sound Transit’s commitment to delivering a efficient and cost-effective transit system for Seattle.
