Port of Seattle Welcomes Opening of Sound Transit SeaTac/Airport Link Light Rail Station

Project Represents Joint Effort for Key Regional Transportation Link

The Port of Seattle joined Sound Transit and regional dignitaries today to celebrate the opening of the new SeaTac/Airport Link Light Rail station. The overall project included $110 million of Port investment which included more than $11 million in savings from the original budget.

"Completing this project with Sound Transit is an excellent example of how public agencies can work successfully together to meet the region's needs," said Port of Seattle Commissioner John Creighton at dedication ceremonies this morning.

The Port worked closely with Sound Transit to accommodate the new station with three elements: the North Expressway Relocation, the pedestrian bridge to the parking garage and the dedicated pedestrian walkway through the garage to the terminal.

Nearly four years of work on the North Expressway Relocation accommodated the incoming rail line to the station, which is located to the east of the main terminal parking garage. Incoming and exiting airport roadways were relocated around the project including a new return to terminal loop.

"With more than 30 million passengers through Sea-Tac every year, and 15,000 airport employees, we anticipate light rail will be a welcome "green" alternative for travel to and from the airport," said Creighton. "Using light rail will reduce air emissions and traffic congestion. It's good for the airport and it's good for our region."