Frequently Asked Questions

Future Tracks is a coalition of downtown Seattle stakeholders – led by the Seattle Metro Chamber of Commerce and Downtown Seattle Association – working together to plan for light rail construction and its transformation of downtown Seattle.

Future Tracks is an independent coalition, not affiliated with Sound Transit or any other public entity. We work in partnership with Sound Transit and the City of Seattle to ensure that downtown communities, businesses, and institutions are strengthened and supported during construction of the Ballard Link Extension.

The Ballard Link Extension will bring light rail to growing neighborhoods like Ballard, Interbay, and South Lake Union. Approved by voters in 2016 as part of Sound Transit 3 (ST3), the project adds new downtown tunnels to connect these areas with the regional system. By improving reliability and resilience, this once-in-a-generation investment ensures downtown Seattle remains the region’s economic, cultural, and civic heart well into the future.

Light rail construction downtown will involve significant activity over several years, including tunneling, station excavation, and utility relocation. This will lead to temporary and short-term impacts such as street closures, detours, noise, and reduced access in certain areas

Future Tracks is working to ensure downtown communities are protected during light rail construction by engaging directly with affected stakeholders and advocating for strong mitigation measures. Our goal is to minimize disruption, protect small businesses, and keep downtown moving forward during this major infrastructure project.

Construction on the Ballard Link Extension is set to begin in 2028 with utility relocation and take approximately 12 years to complete, with service projected to start in 2039. Please visit the Ballard Link Extension project website for updated information regarding the project.

You can get involved in Future Tracks by joining our mailing list to stay informed about future opportunities to participate. Sign up to receive updates, event invitations, and ways to help ensure downtown Seattle stays connected and vibrant through construction. Updates from Sound Transit can be found here.