ST3 delays amid $34B gap, Tacoma pushback, service issues; Wilson housing acceleration
Key Questions
What is the status of Sound Transit ST3 projects?
A $34.5B funding gap defers Ballard, West Seattle, and Tacoma extensions originally planned for 2035, amid ST3 cuts and inflation impacts. Feedback is requested on system plan updates.
When did the East Link 2 Line open?
The East Link 2 Line opened on March 28, serving over 205,000 riders initially. It departs from International District/Chinatown Station.
What disruptions are affecting transit services?
Tacoma T-Line is suspended for repairs until Friday; RapidRide G Line needs a $650k fix for a 1-inch platform error. Metro reroutes and KingCo sales tax deadlock persist.
What new transit services are launching?
Metro Flex expands in Northshore starting April 20; Sound Transit proposes Night Bus service. SDOT's Flip Your Trip revamps for FIFA.
How is the Seattle Transportation Levy performing?
The $1.55B levy is on track to meet voter commitments, per the 2025 annual report. It funds various improvements.
What housing-transit policies is Mayor Wilson pushing?
Wilson seeks taller, denser housing faster near transit, with accelerated zoning changes and West Seattle upzoning. U-District Ave pilots carfree Saturdays.
What other transit challenges exist?
Landslides, ferry issues, and Barton repaving affect service. King County Council deadlocked on 0.1% sales tax for roads.
How are global events impacting local transit?
Rising mortgage rates and global uncertainty stall home buyers, indirectly affecting transit demand; workforce training shifts have unintended consequences.
East Link 2 Line opens 3/28 (205k+ riders); Tacoma T-Line suspended repairs til Fri; RapidRide G Line $650k platform fix; SDOT Flip Your Trip FIFA revamp; Metro Flex Northshore Apr20; Transportation Levy $1.55B track; ST Night Bus prop; $34.5B gap defers Ballard/West Seattle/Tacoma 2035; ST3 cuts; Metro reroutes; KingCo sales tax deadlock; landslides/ferries; Barton repaving; Wilson 'taller, denser'; West Seattle upzoning; U-Dist carfree pilot.