Train testing begins on Sound Transit’s Northgate Link extension

Sound Transit

Sound Transit is now running light-rail test trains on the elevated tracks of the Northgate Link extension. The line is on target to open in September.

“Seeing light-rail vehicles on the Northgate extension really drives home how close we are getting to the start of revenue service,” said Sound Transit CEO Peter Rogoff. “Less than a year from now, Northgate Link will be offering passengers reliable, traffic-free travel to downtown Seattle and Sea-Tac airport.”

Trains are currently moving through the line to test the overhead electrical power system, and the testing will continue over the next few months. The results of the testing will determine whether any adjustments are necessary to the system.

The 4.3-mile segment will offer riders a 14-minute ride between Northgate and downtown Seattle.

Construction of the Northgate Link extension began in 2012 and tunnel work also was completed. The baseline budget for the project was $1.9 billion, and officials say the cost is on target.

Additional extensions to Shoreline, Mountlake Terrace, Lynnwood, Kent/Des Moines, Federal Way and downtown Redmond are planned in 2024.

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