Pre-revenue testing begins Nov. 1 on East Link

Testing on the 2 Line is entering the pre-revenue phase starting Wednesday, Nov. 1. This phase includes training for operators and maintenance staff, and continued testing to ensure stations, tracks, utilities, and vehicles work together as expected in preparation for the start of service next spring. 

Light rail vehicles will run frequently between the South Bellevue and Redmond Technology stations, including at street crossings in the Bel-Red area. Pedestrians and motorists should be alert for trains and expect they could be running at any time of the day or night.

Here are tips for staying safe at rail crossings:

• Look both ways. Trains come from both directions.
• Stay alert at crossings by removing headphones and putting screens down.
• Always use crosswalks and pay attention to crossing signals. Trains always have the right of way.
• When riding a bike, always cross tracks at a 90-degree angle to prevent wheels from getting stuck.

In addition to trains on the tracks, people can expect to see maintenance vehicles, testing equipment, and personnel involved in the testing process, and hear sounds typical in an operating light rail system including station announcements, wheels on the tracks, and warning signals.

The next phase of testing will be simulated service, expected to begin early next year.

Learn more about the 2 Line at soundtransit.org/blog/platform/get-ready-new-link-service-eastside-next-spring.