Summary
The Sound Transit Federal Way Link light rail extension in the cities of SeaTac, Des Moines, Kent and Federal Way, WA, showcases how a sustainability rating tool, such as Envision®, can contribute to and determine the sustainability performance of a design-build project. In much of the Puget Sound region, congested roadways increase travel times. Sound Transit’s Link light rail system offers a high-quality alternative form of transportation, and the Federal Way Link Extension (FWLE) will bring light rail to 36,500 riders per day by 2035. When complete, the Federal Way Link Extension will not only offer an alternative to driving or riding the bus, it will also accelerate development of the new activity centers surrounding each station. Sound Transit, the Central Puget Sound’s Regional Transit Agency, develops and operates the regional light rail network and is promoting a cultural change in how sustainability can be embedded in a design-build mass transit project. From the early planning phase to the bidding process and construction, sustainability is intended to be a key component of decision-making. One major challenge is how to raise awareness and communicate the sustainability vision through the entire process and to all stakeholders involved. The FWLE has the potential to set an example for ensuring sustainability in a design-build project for Sound Transit, as well as other agencies.
Research director
Prof. Spiro Pollalis
Research core team
Dimosthenis Lappas, Research Associate
Case study written by
Dimosthenis Lappas, Research Associate
