SEATTLE, WA — Skanska, a global construction and development firm, announces the beginning of train testing and the handover of the track to Sound Transit in advance of the grand opening of the line on August 30. This milestone indicates that the Lynnwood Link Extension (L300) light rail project is one step closer to opening for public use.

Major work elements that completed the train system currently being tested include:

• Elevated guideway construction, including an aerial crossing of I-5 near Mountlake Terrace Transit Center
• At-grade guideway construction, including cut and fill retaining walls and trackway drainage
• Installation of direct fixation and ballasted track work, including special trackwork

Beyond the handover of the track, there is still construction work left to be done. Currently, Skanska’s remaining efforts on the project are focused predominantly on local city street improvements and landscaping, with the bulk of activities occurring within the City of Lynnwood limits.

Skanska has been responsible for the Lynnwood Link Extension section of the project, delivering 3.8 miles of light rail guideway that will link the cities of Shoreline, Mountlake Terrace, and Lynnwood to the north of Seattle. In addition, the construction team built two elevated stations and a five-story parking garage at the Lynnwood Transit Center.

Physical work on the L300 project commenced in 2019, substantial completion was achieved in late 2023, and the extension is on track to be serviceable to the public at the end of August. The project was unique for overcoming logistical challenges, collaborating closely with Sound Transit and stakeholders, focusing on the environment, and staying on time with the construction schedule.

“The start of pre-revenue testing on the Lynnwood Link Extension marks a big milestone for the project,” said Ryan Clayton, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Skanska USA Civil. “For the Skanska team, this marks the official handover of our guideway, track, and stations work to Sound Transit to commence their operational testing process. We eagerly anticipate the positive impact this project will have on transportation infrastructure in this region, and we look forward to our next opportunity to serve Sound Transit and the Puget Sound communities on similar system expansions.”

Lynnwood Link light rail service is scheduled to begin August 30. Commuters from the Lynnwood Transit Center will enjoy 20-minute rides to the University of Washington, 27-minute rides to downtown Seattle, and 60-minute rides to Sea-Tac Airport. Trains from Lynnwood will also serve the Eastside and reach downtown Bellevue in 51 minutes.