Seattle Lynnwood Link Extension (L300)

Lynnwood, Washington

The Sound Transit Lynnwood Link Extension (L300) project involved the design and construction of a light rail extension project, including two elevated stations, a 3.7-mile guideway, and a five-level parking structure at the Lynnwood Transit Center. The extension was built to ease traffic congestion and expand public transportation options in the greater Puget Sound region.

From its inception, the Lynnwood Link Extension was envisioned as a collaborative effort among multiple stakeholders with a formal construction partnering program guiding the process. The joint venture construction teams, in partnership with Sound Transit, worked closely with various entities to deliver a project focused on key objectives such as schedule, budget, safety, quality, and minimizing community impact, while fostering collaboration and open communication to enhance public transportation options.

Throughout the project, the team developed innovative solutions to overcome a range of challenges, including environmental issues, logistical complexities, and unexpected disruptions. Notably, the project preserved 97% of McAleer Creek’s wetlands by using a non-invasive soldier pile wall method. The team also reduced planned I-5 closures from 16 to four by adjusting construction methods, minimizing traffic disruption. Over 200 precast girders were safely hoisted, and sound walls and landscaping buffers helped mitigate construction impacts on nearby neighborhoods. A concrete strike and the COVID-19 pandemic posed further hurdles, but the team remained focused, keeping the project on track.

The Lynnwood Link Extension project demonstrates the power of collaboration in overcoming complexities and challenges to achieve success. Through aligning goals, promoting open communication, and prioritizing safety and innovation, the project team delivered a vital piece of regional infrastructure safely, on time and within budget, all while fostering lasting business and community relationships.