The Sound Transit Board has identified the preferred light rail route and station locations for the Tacoma Dome Link extension, a project set to extend light rail service by 9.99 miles from Federal Way to Tacoma. This decision marks a significant step, moving the project into its preliminary engineering and final environmental impact statement (EIS) phase for more detailed study. The identification of a preferred alternative signals the direction currently being favored by the Sound Transit Board. The final selection of the project to be built will occur after the publication of the final environmental impact statement (EIS), which is anticipated to take place in 2027.
The preferred alternative for the Tacoma Dome Link extension includes four new light rail stations strategically located in the South Federal Way, Fife, East Tacoma/Portland Avenue, and Tacoma Dome areas. These new stations are designed to seamlessly connect with existing regional transit services such as Pierce Transit and Intercity Transit, among others, enhancing overall regional connectivity.
To accommodate passengers, the future South Federal Way and Fife stations are each planned to include approximately 500 parking spaces. When operational in 2035, the Tacoma Dome Link extension is expected to provide a 35-minute trip between Tacoma Dome and Sea-Tac Airport, with a journey to Downtown Seattle estimated at 70 minutes.