Overview
Like many agencies nationwide that are balancing transit operations and mega-project capital expansions, Sound Transit faces rapidly escalating costs in nearly every area of its work.
The “Enterprise Initiative” is Sound Transit’s comprehensive effort aimed at delivering the maximum benefits of ST3 within available financial resources. As part of this effort, the Sound Transit Board is evaluating different approaches to updating the ST3 System Plan in summer 2026, which may include new ways to build, phase, or sequence projects.
The T Line will extend from its 2023 terminus in the Hilltop neighborhood to add six new stations including Tacoma Community College. With the TCC extension, the T Line will grow to 8.4 miles with 18 stations, all connected to regional light rail at Tacoma Dome Station (opening 2035).
Project schedule
On Aug. 5, 2021, the Sound Transit Board adopted a realigned capital plan to address steeply rising construction and real estate costs affecting many voter-approved regional transit expansion projects.
Following this Board action, Sound Transit it managing the TCC Tacoma Link Extension project toward a 2039 delivery target by working to close a project affordability gap most recently forecasted at $20 million. We’re seeking to reduce or eliminate this gap by increasing funding and support at the local, state and national levels, and by reducing costs as the Board considers and adopts project alignment options with input from partners and the public.
If it is not possible to close the gap, current financial assumptions reflect Sound Transit’s ability to affordably open TCC T Line service in 2041.
Facts:
Length: 3.5 miles; 6 stations
From St Joseph Hospital the Orange Line will extend to Tacoma Community College.
The Orange Line will stop close to China Lake.
Tacoma Community College
