Three new Link light rail stations are set to open on Saturday, connecting Seattle to Kent, Des Moines, and Federal Way.
Sound Transit estimates that the new stations—Kent Des Moines, Star Lake, and Federal Way—will serve 20,000 to 23,000 riders daily, potentially reducing congestion on I-5.
“We are taking a whole lot of cars off the road,” said Sound Transit spokesperson Luke Lamon. “It’s good for our overall environment because people have choices in the ways in which they move around the Sound.”
The new stations will connect with other regional public transportation services, like the Sound Transit Express, King County Metro, and Pierce County Transit.
It’s designed for easy transfers from the bus to the light rail.
“I work out of Sea-Tac Airport, but most of my family is down south, so it’s just very exciting to not have to drive.” Pacifica, a Kent resident taking the light rail, said.
Trains will run every 8 to 15 minutes, 5 a.m. to midnight, seven days a week.
Sound Transit estimates it will take 16 minutes to get from Federal Way to Sea-Tac Airport. About 50 minutes to go from Federal Way to Downtown Seattle.
Around 42 minutes to ride from Kent Des Moines to downtown Seattle.
Light rail riders say this will help them save money when trying to get to the airport.
“That’s mainly why I took the light rail today and just avoid having to pay $100 for an Uber fare,” Alex Carter said.
The light rail extension to Bellevue is expected to be complete in early 2026. Sound Transit is actively
testing trains over Lake Washington.
“I hope it’s just the start,” said Pacifica. “It’s so important to be able to get around and not use a car, especially if you have a disability or something else. I’m personally very excited.”
Opening day celebration
The public is invited to the opening day celebration at the Federal Way Downtown Station from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday. The celebration begins with a ribbon-cutting ceremony followed by a community street fair featuring live music, performances, food trucks, and kids’ activities.
Service starts around 11 a.m. on opening day. From then until 3 p.m., riders will find events at each of the three new stations, including food vendors, giveaways, live performances, community resources, and children’s programming.
To help people plan for upcoming trips on the 1 Line, Sound Transit launched a
new informational site
where riders can find opening day information, schedules, and project alerts.
