Sound Transit CEO exits, creating vacancy at pivotal moment for Link

Julie Timm, the CEO of Sound Transit, will step down from her role effective January 12, 2024, to address family matters, less than halfway through her initial three-year contract. The Sound Transit Board has announced the formation of a navigation team to facilitate the transition process and is expected to appoint an interim CEO in the coming weeks. Timm's leadership since joining in September 2022 has focused on enhancing the rider experience as Sound Transit gears up for the opening of several new light rail extensions, including the Lynnwood Link and East Link. The Lynnwood Link project aims to extend light rail service to Snohomish County, significantly impacting regional transit connectivity. Local officials, including Snohomish County Executive Dave Somers, acknowledged Timm's contributions and expressed anticipation for the new CEO to ensure timely project completion.

This leadership change comes at a critical juncture for Sound Transit, navigating substantial growth and project openings, with multiple projects slated for completion by 2025. The next CEO will significantly influence the future of public transit in the region, highlighting the challenges of balancing leadership responsibilities with personal commitments in a rapidly evolving transit landscape.