By rosebell
Sound Transit and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) are scheduled to publish the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for Seattle’s Ballard Link Extension on 11 December 2026, advancing plans for a 12.4km light rail extension that includes a proposed 5.3km rail-only tunnel.
Publication will launch a 60-day public consultation period, running until 9 February 2027. The Draft EIS will evaluate the potential environmental impacts and benefits of the proposed route and station alternatives, as well as measures to mitigate adverse effects.
The extension is planned to connect SODO with the Ballard neighbourhood. Under Sound Transit’s updated ST3 System Plan, construction of the section between SODO and Seattle Center is fully funded, with passenger services expected to begin in 2042.
However, construction funding for the remaining section between Seattle Center and Ballard has not yet been secured. The Draft EIS will nevertheless assess the full alignment to Market Street in Ballard, allowing environmental review of the entire extension to progress.
Sound Transit said it is working to reduce project costs, increase its financial capacity and secure the outstanding funding, with the aim of opening the complete extension at the same time.
Prepared under the US National Environmental Policy Act and Washington State Environmental Policy Act, the Draft EIS will be available through an online open house, with printed copies also provided. Virtual and in-person public meetings will give the public, agencies and Tribes opportunities to comment.
The Sound Transit Board will review the environmental analysis and consultation feedback before confirming or modifying the preferred alternative in 2027. A Final EIS will then be prepared, followed by the Board’s selection of the project to be built.
