Seattle’s light rail system could extend into Ballard, and local transportation authorities are asking residents to weigh in on options. Sound Transit has developed a survey that details projects for the Sound Transit 3 (ST3) ballot measure that could go to voters as early as November 2016.
The draft proposal includes the following Ballard light rail options for downtown Seattle to Ballard:
- Option A – Primarily at-grade along Elliott and 15th Ave: This project would build light rail from downtown Seattle to Ballard’s Market Street area via the Uptown neighborhood. It would include a movable bridge over the Ship Canal and at-grade light rail in exclusive lanes on 15th Avenue NW and Elliott Avenue W, with signal priority so trains would generally stop only at stations.
- Option B – Primarily elevated along Elliott and 15th Ave with tunnel options: This project would build light rail from downtown Seattle to Ballard’s Market Street area. It would include primarily elevated light rail on 15th Avenue NW and Elliott Avenue W and a movable bridge over the Ship Canal. It could include tunnel options through the Uptown neighborhood into downtown Seattle.
- Option C – Primarily elevated/tunnel options: This project would provide light rail from downtown Seattle to Ballard’s Market Street area. It would include primarily elevated light rail along the west side of the Interbay corridor and would cross the Ship Canal with either a movable bridge or tunnel.
- Option D – Primarily at-grade along Westlake Avenue: This project would build light rail from downtown Seattle to Ballard’s Market Street area via Westlake Avenue and serve South Lake Union and Fremont. It would be built at-grade in exclusive lanes with signal priority. It could use a movable bridge or tunnel to cross the Ship Canal.
Sound Transit will use the feedback to develop a draft plan for next year’s elections. To learn more about ST3 and other light rail proposals for the city, click here.
