Light rail on track for July 18 opening

June 18, 2009

Summary

Story

Information presented today to Sound Transit’s Central Link Oversight Committee said that light rail is on time, under budget, and set to open July 18.

“Hundreds of people are working hard behind the scenes to make sure light rail opens on time and is ready for the large crowds expected opening weekend,” said Sound Transit Boardmember Larry Phillips, Chair of the Central Link Oversight Committee. “The opening celebration will be an opportunity for the people of this region to revel in the long-anticipated arrival of light rail and the progress it brings for our economy, our mobility, and our environment.”

Link light rail construction is 98 percent complete with an estimated final cost of $2.3 billion, $137 million under the project’s $2.437 billion budget. Committee members also learned that:
     • Construction work is complete on the trackway and ten of the 12 stations.
     • Workers are putting the finishing touches on the Beacon Hill and Mount Baker stations, and work on both stations is 99 percent  complete.
     • Operators are continuing to test light rail vehicles, simulating passenger service operations.
     • Work to conduct 100-mile burn-in testing of each of the 35 light rail vehicles is 94 percent complete.
     • The light rail safety certification drills have been successfully completed.

Trains will begin running for passengers on opening weekend Saturday, July 18, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday, July 19, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. During opening weekend, train rides will be free. Sound Transit consulted with event planning firms and other transit agencies to develop plans for managing the large crowds expected during opening weekend. Each station will have activities and shuttle buses, and participants should anticipate long lines to board the trains.

“I hope people will come ride the trains opening weekend and enjoy the family-friendly entertainment at the stations while waiting for your turn to board the train,” said Phillips.

Regular service will begin on July 20 and operate under the regular schedule with trains running from 5 a.m. to 1 a.m. and fares ranging from $1.75 to $2.50.