Jacobs Chosen to Lead Design of Seattle's Light Rail Expansion

Jacobs Selected to Design West Seattle Light Rail Extension

Jacobs, a prominent engineering and construction firm, has recently announced its selection to provide design services for the West Seattle Link Extension, a vital component of Sound Transit's efforts to expand the light rail network in the Seattle area. This project is set to significantly enhance public transportation accessibility while promoting economic growth within the community.

Project Overview

The West Seattle Link Extension encompasses a total of 4.1 miles of new light rail, which will feature a brand new bridge, a tunnel, and four strategically placed stations. This expansion will connect Seattle's SODO neighborhood to the Alaska Junction neighborhood in West Seattle, enabling more efficient travel for both residents and commuters. The design phase will be spearheaded by Jacobs, who will ensure that the project meets the community's needs and integrates seamlessly with the existing infrastructure.

Ron Williams, Executive Vice President at Jacobs, emphasized the importance of this project by stating, "Jacobs has delivered some of Puget Sound's most critical transportation solutions for 70 years, including approximately 30 miles of light rail system expansions for Sound Transit." This extensive experience positions Jacobs to effectively tackle the challenges presented by this major urban transit initiative.

Benefits of the Expansion

Scheduled to begin service in 2032, the West Seattle Link Extension aims to reduce travel times along key routes by as much as 50 percent. This improvement will provide commuters with a reliable alternative to the existing West Seattle Bridge, particularly during peak travel hours. The anticipated benefits extend beyond mere transportation; the construction of this infrastructure will spur new developments around the stations, attracting retail opportunities and prioritizing affordable housing, which is critical in the ever-evolving Seattle metropolitan area.

Adding this extension to the light rail network symbolizes a commitment to better public transit options, ultimately benefiting the local community. Jacobs aims to create urban environments that enhance mobility while also cultivating community spaces for residents to enjoy.

Jacobs Commitment to Sustainability

In addition to enhancing mobility, Jacobs is dedicated to creating sustainable infrastructure solutions. With annual revenues of approximately $12 billion and a team of almost 45,000 professionals, Jacobs is at the forefront of delivering comprehensive services across various sectors, including advanced manufacturing, environmental management, and urban development. Their commitment lies in shaping a more connected and sustainable future for cities around the globe.

For more updates on the West Seattle Link Extension and other initiatives by Jacobs, follow the company on social media platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, X, and Facebook. With a focus on solving today’s complex challenges, Jacobs continues to innovate and develop solutions that will shape the future of urban transit.

For media inquiries, please reach out to Jacobs' press team at media@jacobs.com.

In conclusion, the selection of Jacobs for the West Seattle Link Extension design marks a significant milestone in the ongoing evolution of Seattle’s public transportation landscape. As construction gets underway, the community can look forward to faster, more reliable transit options that will connect neighborhoods and foster economic development. This project is poised to be a transformative addition to the city’s urban infrastructure.