Before trains crossed the lake, there were years of planning meetings, early morning site visits, hard hats, spreadsheets, safety briefings, and big ideas.
The Crosslake Connection didn’t happen overnight. It took engineers, operators, electricians, planners, inspectors, communications teams, construction crews, community partners — and thousands of hours of careful coordination — to bring 2 Line trains across Lake Washington.
These photos capture just a glimpse of that journey.
From the early construction days and rail installation, to landscaping and art placement, to system integration (starting with Connect 2020 - remember that?!) and testing phases, and now to simulated service — the final step before opening.
Every bolt tightened, every wire connected, every signal tested brought us closer to this moment, when passenger service opens on March 28.
The Crosslake Connection is more than tracks and trains. It’s the result of years of collaboration, problem-solving, and dedication from people who believe in building a more connected region.
Take a look at how far we’ve come — and the people who made it possible.
What began as lines on a map is now a real connection across the lake.
The Crosslake Connection represents progress you can see — and ride. It’s proof of what’s possible when thousands of people work toward a shared vision of a more connected region.
We’re proud of how far we’ve come. And we can’t wait for you to experience it.
Of course, we have to give a special shoutout to the contractors who will help sponsor the grand opening event on March 28: Hatch, Jacobs, WSP, STV, KBA, HDR, DEA, HNTB, and RailPros.
We'll see you all next month!