Design Phase Begins for West Seattle Link Extension

Sound Transit has chosen Dallas-based Jacobs to deliver design services for the $7.1 billion West Seattle Link Extension. The extension is intended to improve transit access between residential neighborhoods and economic hubs, while providing faster, more dependable service, according to a July 17 news release from Jacobs.

The project will add 4.1 miles of light rail service, including a new bridge, tunnel, and four stations that will connect Seattle’s SODO area with the Alaska Junction neighborhood in West Seattle. According to the project website, the extension is also expected to spur development near stations, including new retail and affordable housing.

Jacobs will be responsible for Phase 1 design and design validation. The value of the contract was not disclosed.

“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,” said Jacobs Executive Vice President Ron Williams in the release. Jacobs noted its previous work includes the Northgate Link Extension and the I-90 segment of the Eastlink project.

Planning for the extension began in 2017. In October 2024, the Sound Transit Board finalized the alignment and station locations, and the Federal Transit Administration granted approval in April, clearing the way for final design.

Construction is slated to begin in 2027, with service expected to start in 2032.

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