Gondola cabins circulate constantly and therefore are available whenever the rider arrives at the station. SkyLink can handle at least twice that amount.įrequency Sound Transit estimates light rail trains will arrive at 6-12 minute intervals depending on time of day. Sound Transit estimates 13,500 riders in 2042. Gondola consultants/manufacturers estimate SkyLink would cost at least $2 billion less.Ĭapacity SkyLink would provide 4500 seats per hour while light rail depends on the frequency of the trains, on a weekend it may provide 1600 seats, but at most the line could handle 3200 seats per hour (6 min interval), though more people could be accommodated standing. Light rail from West Seattle to the SODO and Stadium Link stations is scheduled to begin in 2032 and will be extended to the International District and downtown stations in 2037 at the earliest.Ĭost to build The West Seattle light rail project is now 73% over budget. “But our attitude has been, ‘Let’s involve ourselves in the process now and not wait two or three years when it might be too late.Start of Operations SkyLink to SODO and the International District could be ready as soon as 2026 – given two years to permit and two years to build. “This is very much a work in progress,” said Bollen. So this is really the chance for us to explore ways to mitigate or avoid any impacts to the church property,” said Gallagher.īollen said the church’s discussions with Sound Transit have been peaceful and productive. “We are at the very earliest phases of the process. Sound Transit is still years from a decision. Their church must move only if one of those proposed routes is approved. It’s kind of coming right where our two buildings sit.”

“But then, about three or four weeks ago, we saw some maps that made it seem pretty obvious that it’s not just coming. That wasn’t a surprise,” said church elder Tony Bollen. Members of Alderwood Community Church say they were surprised about the routes, which go directly through where their church sits - their church’s property for more than 100 years.

Seattle light rail route