Downtown Redmond Link Extension project update
The Downtown Redmond Link Extension project will build a 3.4 mile extension of light rail to downtown Redmond from the Redmond Technology Station currently under construction in Overlake. Construction begins this year and will open for service in 2024 with two stations and 1,400 new parking spaces. This project is part of the voter approved system expansion plan to add 62 new miles of light rail throughout the region. In 2024, people will be able to travel congestion-free to destinations across the region, from Redmond, to Bellevue, to Seattle, to Lynnwood and Federal Way.
In 2018, the Sound Transit team attended community events in Redmond to share updates on the project. More than 500 people visited our booths at the So Bazaar Night Market and Derby Days.
We are moving forward in selecting a design-build contractor. Three qualified teams have submitted their proposals, and we plan to announce the selected design-build contractor this summer. We could start early construction work like utility relocation, building demo, and tree removal soon after that.
Stay tuned for future outreach opportunities to connect with Sound Transit in Redmond or contact Community Outreach Specialist Ryan Bianchi for additional information.
Downtown Redmond Station area spotlight
The Downtown Redmond Station, an elevated station, is the final stop of what will become light rail system’s blue line. The station will be located parallel to NE 76th Street with entrances on the east and west sides of 166th Avenue NE. The station will be distinctive and identifiable while fitting into the surrounding downtown context. The platform level entrance at the top of the west entry will be highly visible with a distinctive beacon and serve as an orienting feature for patrons.
The station plaza will have a mix of built structures, plantings, drop-off areas and patron amenities such as art installations and bicycle parking. People riding bikes and walking will find a welcoming environment when they enter the station area from all directions.
With the central location, Sound Transit promises to establish easy access for all travelers to use the service. Community members can walk, drive, bike or take the bus to the light rail. Riders who board light rail in downtown Redmond can expect to be at the Westlake Station in Downtown Seattle in 45 minutes.
Last call for the City of Redmond development agreement public input
With preliminary design complete, Sound Transit and the City of Redmond are preparing to enter into a development agreement that memorializes key project scope commitments and development standards.
As the Redmond City Council considers the development agreement, we would like to share with you how key themes from the community were addressed in preliminary design. Today is the last day to complete the City’s questionnaire to:
- Share your level of support for preliminary design decisions, and
- Share what ideas and concerns you have looking ahead to construction.
City staff will share your feedback with the City Council prior to the Council’s action on the development agreement, expected in spring or summer 2019.