Commuter Rail
The commuter rail component adds two-way rush-hour train service using existing railroad tracks between Everett, Seattle, Tacoma and Lakewood. Commuter rail will offer a fast, dependable and easy-to-use commute option, linking major destinations in Snohomish, Pierce and King counties.
The 81-mile commuter rail system includes 14 stations (and three provisional stations) as part of Sound Move. Additional stations may be built in future phases. Commuter rail will share several stations with Amtrak and the state's expanding intercity rail service between Portland and Vancouver, B.C., creating opportunities for interstate and local connections.
Commuter rail builds on a railroad network already in place, increasing the transportation system's people-moving capacity and, by making necessary track and signal improvements, improving the capacity of those lines for other passenger and freight trains as well.
Recognizing the on-going siting and design process for a new ballpark and other potential sports complex improvements in the Kingdome area, the RTA will also explore the possibility of providing special event commuter rail service if funding is available.
The RTA will develop park-and-ride lots, transit centers and stations that serve and support the commuter rail system through a joint development program promoting public/private partnerships and partnerships with local jurisdictions. The goal of the program will be to encourage transit and pedestrain access to stations by establishing and promoting partnerships with parties interested in locating in areas served by commuter rail. The joint development program will try to establish transit and pedestrian-friendly improvements and land uses in surrounding areas. Access improvements that extend the benefits and the scope of transit system to more people and to more places will be considered for RTA funding as part of the budget for each station.
