By rosebell
With the aim of providing design services for the West Seattle Link Extension, Sound Transit has selected Jacobs, whereas this project i s going to extend Seattle’s light rail network, enhancing connectivity for residential and economic centres and offering faster, more reliable service.
Linking to the city’s light rail network, the West Seattle Link Extension will be 6.6km and will include a tunnel, a bridge, and four new stations, connecting Seattle’s SODO neighbourhood with West Seattle’s Alaska Junction neighbourhood.Leading Phase 1 design and design validation for the project will be up to Jacobs.
According to Jacobs executive vice-president Ron Williams: “Jacobs has delivered some of Puget Sound’s most critical transportation solutions for 70 years, including approximately 30 miles of light rail system expansions for Sound Transit. Transportation infrastructure enhances mobility and provides vital economic growth and community opportunities. The West Seattle Link Extension will serve as a gateway to the community, with streetscapes and public spaces that resonate with residents, while reducing travel times and improving access to jobs, education and services in the Seattle area.”
While the scheduled date for inauguration of the West Seattle Link Extension is 2032, it is due to decrease travel times on key lines by up to 50%. and also will offer commuters an alternative to the West Seattle Bridge during periods of peak demand. The extension will also be the catalyst for new development near stations, including retail opportunities and a focus on affordable housing.
