Sound Transit Launches Pre-Revenue Testing for Lynnwood Link Extension
A Siemens-made light rail vehicle was spotted at Lynnwood City Center Station, marking the beginning of pre-revenue testing for the new Lynnwood Link extension. Sound Transit is gearing up to add four new stations to the northern end of the line, with Lynnwood Link set to start carrying passengers on August 30th.
Local leaders, including Snohomish County Executive Dave Somers and Lynnwood Mayor Christine Frizzell, joined Sound Transit officials for an event at Lynnwood City Center Station to kick off the pre-revenue testing phase. This milestone brings the region closer to enjoying fast and reliable light rail service that residents have been eagerly anticipating for years.
Pre-revenue testing involves training for operators and maintenance staff, as well as ongoing testing to ensure that all systems are functioning properly before the start of service. Light rail vehicles will be running between Northgate and Lynnwood City Center stations, giving the public a glimpse of what to expect once the extension officially opens.
The $3.26 billion project budget for the Lynnwood Link extension includes funding from the Federal Transit Administration and the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Build America Bureau. The extension will add new stations in Shoreline, Mountlake Terrace, and Lynnwood, providing improved transit options and connectivity for the region.
Community Transit is also planning to adjust bus routes to integrate with the new light rail service, enhancing the overall transit network. With the opening of Lynnwood Link, the region will see increased mobility and reduced congestion along the Seattle/Lynnwood corridor.
Looking ahead, Sound Transit is working on expanding its light rail system to serve more communities in the greater Seattle area. The agency’s ambitious plans include new lines to Everett, Tacoma, West Seattle, Ballard, and the Eastside, as well as additional bus rapid transit projects.
Stay tuned for more updates on the inauguration of the Lynnwood Link extension, scheduled for next month. The expansion of Sound Transit’s transit network is a significant step towards addressing the region’s growing transportation needs.
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**Biography:**
**Dave Somers:**
Dave Somers is the Snohomish County Executive and a Sound Transit Board Vice Chair. He has been a strong advocate for expanding transit options in the region and played a key role in bringing the Lynnwood Link extension to fruition.
**Christine Frizzell:**
Christine Frizzell is the Mayor of Lynnwood and has been instrumental in supporting the development of the Lynnwood Link extension. Her leadership has helped pave the way for improved transportation services in the area.