This project would extend Light Rail Transit seven miles to the Northgate Transit Center from the downtown Seattle station. The exact alignment is yet to be determined. Trains would operate at four-to-five minute intervals during the peak periods and eight-to-nine minute intervals during off-peak. The extension to Northgate allows for restructuring the existing transit network. Buses could feed rail stations rather than providing direct service to downtown Seattle and the University District.

Benefits:

• Provides new people-carrying capacity in the I-5 North corridor, the line is projected to carry 92,000 -to-113,000 passengers per day.
• Allows for the reconfiguration and redeployment of the bus transit network.
• Reduces the number of cars and buses in downtown Seattle.
• Supports pollution free travel modes – including walking and bicycling.
• Provides economic stimulus through its construction and operation.
• Supports “smart growth” in areas where growth has been approved.
• Encourages transit-oriented development, particularly around stations.
• Encourages investment in business and housing around stations.

Updated: Sept. 17, 2003