Ballard Link Extension
Serving regional jobs, dense neighborhoods

Timeline and milestones

  • Voter approval (2016)

  • MilestoneTarget
    Alternatives development
    Checkmark - Complete
    Board identified preferred and other WSBLE Draft EIS alternatives
    Checkmark - Complete
    WSBLE Draft EIS and public comment period
    Checkmark - Complete
    Environmental review for the WSLE and BLE projects proceed on different timelines 
    Checkmark - Complete
    BLE National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) scopingWe are here
    BLE Draft Environmental Impact Statement and public comment period2026
    ST Board confirms or modifies the BLE Preferred Alternative2026
    BLE Final Environmental Impact Statement publication2026
    ST Board selects BLE project to be built2026

     

  • BLE is scheduled to begin design after the Federal Record of Decision. At this time, we are working with our federal partners to understand the timeline of our outgoing environmental review phase for the BLE. The BLE project timeline will be updated when additional information is available.   

    Milestone
    Procure final design and construction contracts 
    Obtain land use and construction permits 
    Begin property acquisition/relocation 
    Advance utility relocation/early work contracts 
  • BLE is scheduled to begin construction and testing in 2028, concluding in 2039. The start of services for BLE is scheduled for 2039. See below for more information. Note that construction for the project between Smith Cove and Ballard stations will begin as funding is available. 

    Milestone
    Demolition and clearing where necessary to build and operate the light rail guideway
    Earth work such as stormwater systems, column footings, retaining walls and tunneling
    Guideway and station construction
    Ongoing conversations with anyone affected by construction 
    Safety education 
    Testing and preparations 
  • Note that all dates are anticipated and will be updated as new information is available.