The grand opening of the Sound Transit Lynnwood Link Extension (L300) on August 30, 2024, represents not only the launch of a vital transit line, but also a significant milestone in construction partnering and collaborative project management. This achievement highlights the dedication and teamwork of all stakeholders involved, paving the way for a more efficient and sustainable public transportation system in the Seattle metropolitan area.
A Collaborative Effort
From its inception, the Lynnwood Link Extension was envisioned as a collaborative effort among multiple stakeholders. The joint venture construction teams, in partnership with Sound Transit, collaborated closely with numerous entities to deliver a project designed to ease traffic congestion and enhance public transportation options. The project’s success is rooted in a culture of teamwork fostered through construction partnering.
Neal Flesner of VELO Group played a pivotal role in facilitating this partnering approach, helping to create an inclusive environment that encourages open communication and alignment of goals among all parties. “Construction Partnering streamlined this endeavor by fostering a proactive team environment,” Flesner remarked, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in navigating the complexities of such a significant infrastructure project.
Project Team and Scope
The Lynwood Link Extension was constructed by the Stacy & Witbeck/Kiewit/ Hoffman JV and Skanska Constructors L300 JV using the GC/CM delivery method. HNTB Jacobs Trusted Design Partners JV served as project manager on all engineering and architectural aspects of the project design and construction support, and PGH Wong provided construction management services.
The project involved construction of 3.7 miles of guideway, two elevated stations, and a five-level, 1,675-car parking structure at the Lynnwood Transit Center.
Construction began in 2019, with substantial completion achieved in late 2023, and the extension opened for public use at the end of August 2024. The new transit line allows travelers from Lynnwood to reach the University of Washington in 20 minutes, downtown Seattle in 27 minutes, and Sea-Tac Airport in 60 minutes. Additionally, trains from Lynnwood will connect to the Eastside, with a travel time of 51 minutes to downtown Bellevue.
Overcoming Challenges Together
Throughout the project’s lifecycle, the team faced numerous logistical hurdles, compounded by the complexities introduced by the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these challenges, the dedication of the workforce never wavered. This project is noteworthy not only for overcoming these logistical obstacles but also for fostering strong collaboration with Sound Transit and stakeholders, emphasizing environmental sustainability, and adhering to its construction schedule.
Some of the key challenges overcome by the team included:
- Navigating the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, including a concrete strike, while maintaining original project targets.
- Preserving 97% of McAleer Creek’s original wetlands by using a temporary soldier pile wall with tiebacks instead of a more invasive method.
- Reducing planned I-5 closures from 16 to four by adjusting construction methods in both directions of traffic.
- Hoisting over 200 precast girders without incident to construction workers or the traveling public.
- Minimizing impacts on nearby residential neighborhoods by creating sound walls, landscaping buffers and a new yard entrance to reduce construction traffic.
“Skanska is proud of the work we have accomplished on the Lynnwood Link Extension,” said Ryan Clayton, Senior Vice President and General Manager at Skanska USA Civil. “Working with Sound Transit has given us the opportunity to build a state-of-the-art public transit solution for the communities of the greater Puget Sound region. The knowledge and expertise of everyone involved on the project allowed us, and our partners, to find collaborative solutions to get the job done safely, on time and within budget.”
Looking Ahead
The project team’s achievements, including a timely handover to Sound Transit before the public opening, signal a bright future for this transit line and its stakeholders.
“We eagerly anticipate the positive impact this project will have on transportation infrastructure in this region and look forward to our next opportunity to serve Sound Transit and the Puget Sound communities on similar system expansions,” said Clayton.
As we celebrate the completion of the Lynnwood Link Extension, we also reflect on the collaborative spirit that made it possible. This project serves as a model for future infrastructure initiatives, showcasing the power of construction partnering in overcoming unprecedented challenges and delivering high-quality public services to our communities.
Congratulations to Sound Transit and its project team on this monumental achievement!
