Upcoming ceremonies to showcase the innovative HNTB-designed light rail extension, opening a new route and improved access for communities
SEATTLE (Aug. 29, 2024) – HNTB, a leading infrastructure solutions firm, celebrates a significant milestone in Seattle’s regional transit development with the completion of the Lynnwood Link Extension. Now called the “1 Line to Lynnwood,” the line connects Northgate Station to Lynnwood Transit Center and marks the first light rail extension to Snohomish County, Washington. The extensive, multi-year project, incorporating four new light rail stations, three parking garages, and 8.5 miles of track, is the culmination of innovative design and a collaborative partnership.
The grand opening ceremonies kick off on Aug. 30, 2024, at 11 a.m. with a ribbon cutting at the Lynnwood City Center Station, leading to the inaugural service to and from Lynnwood. At 4 p.m., members of the public are invited to join the celebration, including activities and entertainment at each of the four new stations, Lynnwood, Mountlake Terrace, Shoreline North (at 185th), and Shoreline South (at 148th).
“For 25 years, HNTB’s partnership with Sound Transit has been founded on trust, collaboration and a shared commitment to excellence,” said Kris Agers, HNTB’s Washington state office leader and senior vice president. “We’re pleased to be part of another successful collaboration in delivering innovative design solutions for Sound Transit’s $18 billion capital program.”
Sound Transit’s Lynnwood Link Extension
HNTB served as project manager on all engineering and architectural aspects of the project design and construction support. HNTB’s innovative approach, including the use of cutting-edge 3-D modeling and delivering design packages early, allowed construction to begin prior to completion of the entire design, enhanced the team collaboration and significantly accelerated the construction timeline.
“This new service marks the first time Sound Transit’s Link Light Rail System has extended into Snohomish County, broadening the range of the entire line and connecting communities across the region,” said Snohomish County Executive and Sound Transit vice chair Dave Somers. “The Lynnwood Link Extension will provide an efficient and sustainable transit option and bring numerous benefits to the region by enhancing daily commutes, reducing environmental impact and fostering economic development.”
Four passenger stations have been constructed, two in the City of Shoreline, one in Mountlake Terrace and one in Lynnwood, each designed to accommodate high volumes of daily commuters. HNTB is also managing the design of an additional fifth station at 130th Street in Seattle, reflecting its ongoing involvement and adaptability in accommodating changes and expansions to the project scope.
“The Lynnwood Link Extension project stands as a testament to our ability to deliver complex infrastructure on time and on budget through effective collaboration and strong relationship management,” explained Moein El-Aarag, project manager and group director with HNTB. “We successfully navigated and fostered partnerships across multiple agencies, including Washington State Department of Transportation and the Cities of Lynnwood, Mountlake Terrace, Shoreline and Seattle. Together, we have achieved a significant milestone in enhancing our region’s transit infrastructure.”
For more information about the opening events or the Lynnwood Link Extension, please visit https://www.soundtransit.org/system-expansion/lynnwood-link-extension or https://www.soundtransit.org/snocolink.