Sound Transit is looking for ideas that could reduce costs or speed up the delivery of light rail projects still in the planning phase, including the Ballard Link extension.
The agency has opened a request for information, saying it’s seeking strategies that use “innovative technologies.” Responses are due by 5 p.m. on Oct. 5. The request also covers the Everett Link and Tacoma Dome Link extension projects.
Sound Transit has said Ballard light rail could open by 2042 if the agency reduces project costs and secures enough funding to begin construction by 2033. Without additional savings or funding, service to Smith Cove, Interbay, and Market Street could be delayed until around 2060.
The Sound Transit Board directed the agency to seek these ideas when it updated the ST System Plan in May. The agency said proposed strategies should complement the existing environmental review process and avoid causing additional disruption or delays.
“Sound Transit must exhaust every option when it comes to finding ways to reduce costs, speed up delivery, and bring new ideas to the table,” King County Executive and Sound Transit Board member Girmay Zahilay said. “We need to keep looking at every reasonable option to deliver the full promise of ST3, including light rail all the way to Market Street in Ballard.”
Sound Transit said its expanded project analysis should consider more than construction costs. Evaluations should also compare ridership capacity, service frequency, passenger experience, operations, long-term maintenance, and labor considerations.
“We need to leave no stone left unturned to find cost savings, efficacies, and international best practices that will get light rail to Ballard faster and cheaper. This RFI is one tool to help us find those strategies,” Seattle City Councilmember and Sound Transit Board member Dan Strauss said.
The request is intended to gather information and will not lead directly to a contract award.
Qualified organizations and individuals can find the RFI at Biddingo. Questions can be emailed to dccprocurementhelp@soundtransit.org.
Photo: Sound Transit