An August 20, 2026 News release of Sound Transit fall Service Change detailed their decision to use light rail trains to essentially replace all the ST Express Bus Service on routes they currently serve. The fact they chose to use light rail trains to replace bus routes throughout service area exemplifes the board’s failure to understand the need for “sustainability”.
That “sustainability” should limit changes to what benefits transit riders. Yet these transit changes will require riders transfer to and from trains along the route or at light rail stations to continue their commute. Those living along the former bus routes will lose access to transit. Those transfering to light rail will reduce access for current light rail riders and lose access to more convenient locations for egress and access in Seattle. Replacing the bus routes along the routes into Seattle also reduces total transit capacity into the city
That sustainability should also require Sound Transit limit what current and future residents wll be forced to pay to fund light rail operation. Doing so requires they no longer continue ST3 extensions beyond Lynnwood and Federal Way. That the projected costs of constructing light rail from Kirkland to Issaquah and the required costs for light rail train maintenance and operation will far exceed any benefits from extension.
The bottom line the Sound Transit’s decision to replace bus routes with light rail rails is another example of their plans to spend billions if dollars on ST3 extensions that violate any rational assessment of sustainabilty.
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