Wedoany.com Report-Jul. 31, Dallas-based engineering firm Jacobs has been selected by Sound Transit to provide design services for the West Seattle Link Extension, a 6.6 km addition to Seattle’s light rail network. The $7.1 billion project aims to enhance urban connectivity, alleviate road congestion, and support the development of retail and affordable housing.

The SoDo neighbourhood, which contains Seattle’s Stadium District

The planned extension will connect the SoDo (South of Downtown) industrial area to the Alaska Junction district in West Seattle. The route will include a 520-meter cable-stayed bridge crossing the Duwamish River, a tunnel segment, and four new stations. The alignment will feature a mix of underground, at-grade, and elevated sections to adapt to the varied urban landscape.

Jacobs will be responsible for Phase 1 of the design, including overall design management and design validation. The company brings extensive regional experience, having contributed to roughly 30 miles of previous light rail system expansions for Sound Transit.

Ron Willia, executive vice president at Jacobs, stated: “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.”

Once completed, the extension is expected to benefit approximately 26,000 daily riders by reducing travel time by up to 50% between West Seattle and downtown. It will also offer a reliable transit alternative to the West Seattle Bridge, particularly during high-demand periods.

The West Seattle Link Extension has been in planning since 2017. Groundbreaking is scheduled for 2027, with operations anticipated to begin in 2032. The project represents a significant investment in Seattle’s long-term mobility infrastructure and aligns with broader goals to promote sustainable urban development and improved public transport access.