Seattle opens first light rail across floating bridge
16 hours ago
- #transportation
- #infrastructure
- #Seattle
- Seattle's new light rail route, the 'Crosslake Connection,' has opened, making it the world's first metro line to operate across a floating bridge.
- The project, envisioned over 60 years ago and promised to voters since 2008, faced delays including those from the COVID-19 pandemic before its completion.
- The seven-mile extension adds stations at Mercer Island and Judkins Park, connecting the Eastside to Seattle's existing light rail system, now spanning 63 miles with 50 stations.
- Officials, including Governor Bob Ferguson and Senator Patty Murray, highlighted the historic and economic significance of the connection for commuters and the region.
- Sound Transit plans further expansions, with commitments to extend service to areas like Ballard, West Seattle, and Tacoma in the future.