Sound Transit
Sound Transit is undertaking the largest transit expansion in the U.S., operating services like Link light rail, Sounder trains, and ST Express Bus, while maintaining a strong commitment to sustainability and equity.
Sound Transit Services
Sound Transit operates multiple transit services including Link light rail, Sounder trains, ST Express Bus, and Tacoma Link light rail. It provides reduced fares for low-income adults, seniors, disabled riders, and youth. Furthermore, Sound Transit offers free youth transit passes for individuals 18 and under. The agency is continually expanding its transit network with new voter-approved projects.
Sound Transit System Expansions
Sound Transit is undertaking the largest system expansion program in the nation. Key projects include the extension of the 1 Line into Snohomish County with new stations between Northgate and Lynnwood City Center opening on August 30, and the 2 Line between South Bellevue Station and Redmond Technology Station that opened on April 27, 2024. Future expansions include the Federal Way Link Extension, expected to open in 2026, the Downtown Redmond Link in Spring 2025, and the East Link Extension anticipated to connect the 2 Line to the 1 Line in downtown Seattle by late 2025. Additionally, the Stride Bus Rapid Transit system is expected to open for service starting in 2027.
Sound Transit Environmental and Sustainability Initiatives
Sound Transit maintains an internationally certified ISO 14001 Environmental and Sustainability Management System. The agency's 2022 Sustainability Progress Report highlights its progress in making transit sustainable for the Central Puget Sound region. Sound Transit employs various measures to enhance environmental stewardship and sustainability across its operations and services.
Sound Transit Governance and Funding
Sound Transit is governed by an 18-member Board of Directors. The agency's funding for transit construction and operations is sourced from local taxes, federal grants and loans, bond issuances, interest earnings, fare income, and miscellaneous revenues. Notably, Sound Transit holds one of the highest bond ratings of any transit agency in the country. Furthermore, a $75 million Innovation and Technology Fund was included in the 2016 voter-approved Sound Transit 3 measure to support future technological advancements.
Sound Transit Civil Rights and Inclusion
Sound Transit’s Office of Civil Rights, Equity, and Inclusion ensures equitable access to employment and services. The office works towards a diverse workforce and ensures that the businesses building the regional transit system mirror the community it serves. Sound Transit is committed to non-discrimination on the basis of race, color, or national origin, ensuring equal employment opportunities and access to programs and services.