Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell signs executive order speeding up light rail expansion

Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell has signed an executive order designed to accelerate the development of light rail service in the Seattle metro area, focusing on the Ballard and West Seattle neighborhoods. The order outlines four initiatives aimed at enhancing collaboration between the city and transit authorities, with an emphasis on expediting project delivery. One key initiative involves the establishment of the Office of the Waterfront and Civic Projects & Sound Transit, which will oversee the integration of Sound Transit projects under Director Angela Brady. Additionally, the Mayor's Office will work on legislation to streamline the permitting process, paving the way for necessary land use changes. The plan includes funding for up to 50 new staff members to ensure regulatory compliance and timely delivery of the Sound Transit 3 project.

The expanded office will also create a comprehensive four-year work plan to improve safety and accessibility at transit stations. With an estimated completion date of 2039 for the Ballard Link Extension and 2032 for the West Seattle Link Extension, these projects are set to transform regional mobility. Mayor Harrell underscored the urgency of completing the Sound Transit expansion to enhance connectivity and sustainability in the region.